when does australian open start
The 2026 Australian Open main draw is scheduled to start on Sunday, 18 January 2026, at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Australia.
Quick Scoop
- The 2026 Australian Open runs from 12 January to 1 February 2026, with qualifying planned from 12–15 January 2026.
- The main draw is set to begin on Sunday, 18 January 2026, with first‑round matches across day and night sessions.
- The women’s singles final is slated for Saturday, 31 January 2026, and the men’s singles final for Sunday, 1 February 2026, both at Melbourne Park.
Exact times and sessions can shift slightly each year, so checking official tournament or tour‑partner updates closer to the event is recommended.
Key Dates at a Glance
| Stage | Dates (2026) |
|---|---|
| Qualifying rounds | 12–15 January 2026 |
| Main draw starts | 18 January 2026 |
| Tournament window | 12 January – 1 February 2026 |
| Women’s singles final | 31 January 2026 |
| Men’s singles final | 1 February 2026 |