The 2026 Australian Open Media Day: A Showcase of Tennis Excellence and Unpredictable Quotables
The anticipation for the 2026 Australian Open is palpable, with a star-studded lineup of players, both seasoned veterans and rising talents, gearing up for the prestigious Grand Slam event. As the tennis world prepares for the thrilling tournament, the media day provided a glimpse into the minds of these athletes, their ambitions, and the unique perspectives they bring to the court.
The Returning Champions: A Blend of Nostalgia and Ambition
The 2025 women's singles champion, Madison Keys, expressed her excitement about returning to the scene of her Grand Slam breakthrough at Melbourne Park, stating, 'Even though I’ve been on this tour for a long time, this is also still my first experience as [defending champion]. I’m really just trying to soak in all of, like, the really cool fun parts, like walking in and seeing a picture of me holding the trophy. I could have never dreamed of that happening.'
Jannik Sinner, aiming for a third consecutive Australian Open men's singles triumph, relies on a trusted formula, saying, 'I think this is my main goal for this year. I’m just hungry for the title, hungry to do a really good result here … I’m really excited about the tournament beginning.'
The Quest for Redemption and the Pursuit of Excellence
World No.1 Carlos Alcaraz, focused on completing the only Grand Slam trophy missing from his collection, shared his thoughts on the previous year's final, 'That final was a tough one. She played incredible and overplayed me. Took me a little time to recover. Going to this AO, I’m not really focusing on that last year result. But of course, I would like to do just a little better than I did last year.'
After a three-set loss in the 2025 singles final, world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka seeks redemption, stating, 'I don't compare generations … I enjoy watching them. I enjoyed playing them, too. I see that as a fan of tennis in general. The level has been amazing to watch those 20 years with different generations. As a competitor, it's been amazing to face them. Always a big challenge.'
The Legacy of Legends: Stan Wawrinka's Final AO Draw
AO 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka, who will contest his last AO draw in 2026, reflected on his journey, 'It’s pretty crazy that it’s already been 10 years competing in the main draw. Ultimately every single player in the draw is extremely tough … It’s going to be a battle, but I’m looking forward to it. It basically just means that I’m going to have to be firing from the word ‘go’.'
Experience and Wisdom: Alex de Minaur's Perspective
Australian No.1 Alex de Minaur, facing AO 2022 semifinalist Matteo Berrettini, emphasized the importance of the moment, 'It’s a Grand Slam and every Grand Slam you want to perform and do your best, and you want to take advantage of the moment now because tomorrow isn’t promised.'
Living in the Moment: Coco Gauff's Grand Slam Pursuit
Coco Gauff, a champion at Roland Garros and the US Open, is embracing the present, 'I think it’s great opportunity to test myself … I’m grateful so far to all of my doctors that have done an incredible job getting me back on court, to my team who has been persistent and believing in the process.'
A Fresh Start: Stefanos Tsitsipas' New Year's Resolution
After injuries impacted a challenging 2025 season, AO 2023 finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas is embracing a fresh start, 'I would say my New Year's resolution is to be unapologetically myself. I will say this every year, but to have fun, so ... Yeah, I just want to confidently stand with the decisions that I make.'
Positive Vibes Only: Naomi Osaka's 2026 Outlook
Former world No.1 and two-time Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka begins the 2026 season with positive energy, 'I mean, I think I’ve played the level a lot more than I did last year. That [my AO debut in 2025] was like my first big ever WTA match so I think I’ve learnt a lot from the women that I’ve played over the past year… I think it’s definitely helped my tennis and my confidence… It really lifts your level.'
Junior to Professional: Emerson Jones' Transition
At age 17, former junior world No.1 Emerson Jones is focusing on her transition to the professional tour, 'Coming in as a main draw player gives a different vibe, apparently with the struggles I’ve has in the past coming here. Super excited and coming in full force, yeah.'
Rising Star: Alexandra Eala's Main-Draw Debut
After exiting in the first round of AO 2025 qualifying, Alexandra Eala makes her main-draw debut as a top-50 star this January, showcasing the tournament's potential to launch new talents into the spotlight.
