Alcaraz, Sabalenka make stuttering starts to Australian Open 2026

Al JazeeraCenterEN 4 min read 100% complete by By News AgenciesJanuary 18, 2026 at 01:42 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka, the top seeds, both advanced to the second round of the Australian Open in Melbourne on January 18, 2026, despite challenging starts. Alcaraz defeated Adam Walton in straight sets (6-3, 7-6, 6-2) but struggled with unforced errors as he pursues his first Australian Open title and a potential career Grand Slam. Sabalenka also won in straight sets (6-4, 6-1) against Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah, overcoming a shaky start in her bid for a third Melbourne title in four years. Alcaraz will face Yannick Hanfmann in the next round, while Sabalenka awaits the winner of Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova versus Bai Zhuoxuan.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Alexander Zverev 30% Novak Djokovic 30% Germany 30% Yannick Hanfmann 40% Rafael Nadal 40% Spain 40% Australia ×250% Adam Walton ×260% Melbourne ×370% Aryna Sabalenka ×480% Carlos Alcaraz ×690% Australian Open ×6100%

Keywords

australian open 100% carlos alcaraz 90% tennis grand slam 90% aryna sabalenka 90% career grand slam 60% straight-sets win 60% unforced errors 50% melbourne 50% first round 50%