The Australian Open has introduced the Opening Week Showdown to give fans early access to high-profile matches before the Grand Slam officially begins. This format blends entertainment with competition, offering spectators a chance to see top players in action. Craig Tiley, Tournament Director, explained: “Opening Week in 2026 is set to be our most ambitious yet. Fans can see the world’s best players in must-see showdowns alongside the edge-of-your-seat intensity of the 1 Point Slam, offering world-class tennis at remarkable value,” he said.
Sinner vs. Auger-Aliassime
Jannik Sinner, the defending champion, will face Felix Auger-Aliassime in a match that highlights contrasting styles. Sinner’s consistency and tactical precision will be tested against Auger-Aliassime’s athleticism and powerful shot-making. For both players, the exhibition is a chance to sharpen their form before the main draw.
AO champion Jannik Sinner. A resurgent Felix Auger-Aliassime. Rod Laver Arena as the stage 🏟️😍
Opening Week Showdowns don’t get better than this. Tickets from $57*, T
Jannik Sinner in 2025
Jannik SinnerWWWWWWWWWW
2025 HighlightsAt the moment ranked no.2, the Italian played his last match on the 16th of November when he defeated world no.1 Carlos Alcaraz 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals to win his 25th career title.
Currently, during this season Jannik has managed to achieve a compiled 58-6 record. The Italian clinched 6 titles in 2025 at the Australian Open, Wimbledon, Beijing, Vienna, Paris and the Nitto ATP Finals. Sinner was the finalist in Rome, French Open, Cincinnati and U.S. Open.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
Carlos Alcaraz2025 HighlightsCurrently the world no.1, the Spaniard played his last contest on the 16th of November when he lost to world no.2 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
This year Carlos owns an overall 71-9 win-loss record. Carlos conquered 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. Carlos was the runner-up in Barcelona, Wimbledon and the Nitto ATP Finals.
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz played each other 17 times. Their record is 11-6 for Alcaraz.
