The Australian Open is here, with the top half of the women’s draw and the bottom half of the men’s draw opening proceedings in Melbourne.
Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka headlines the first day, with Americans and Australians alike looking to cause upsets and men’s second seed Alexander Zverev looking to take his first step towards a debut major win.
Here’s what to watch on the show courts and around the grounds.
Start time: 7:30 p.m. ET, 4:30 p.m. PT January 11
TV: ESPN, Tennis Channel
Streaming: ESPN+
Anca Todoni (Q) vs. Zheng Qinwen (5)
A very tricky task for the Romanian qualifier Todoni, who faces last year’s women singles finalist Zheng. Zheng used her defeat by Sabalenka as a springboard, reaching world No. 5 and winning Olympic gold in women’s singles. Her serve is one of the most formidable on the WTA Tour and her heavy forehand is a serious weapon. Todoni, 20, beat Olga Danilovic on her Grand Slam debut at last year’s Wimbledon, but Zheng is one of the toughest draws she could have faced, especially in Melbourne.
Casper Ruud (6) vs. Jaume Munar
Ruud finds himself in a funny position at the start of 2025. He’s a three-time Grand Slam finalist, entering his prime years firmly ensconced in the top 10 of the ATP Tour, but he thinks his tennis is going to…
