Carlos Alcaraz will open his 2026 campaign with a couple of exhibition matches in January. World no. 1 will face Jannik Sinner in Seoul before heading Down Under for his final Australian Open preparations.
On January 15, Carlos will battle under the bright lights of Rod Laver Arena, headlining the Australian Open's Opening Week showcase with a blockbuster clash against home favorite Alex de Minaur.
The event is designed to give fans an early look at the world's best players. On the other hand, the top contender get a chance to fine-tune their games before the start of the first Major event of the season.
Issued in public interest: Lightning, then the thunder ⚡️💫
Avoid the FOMO, get your tickets from $57* and save yourself a seat for the Carlos Alcaraz vs De Minaur face-off during the Opening Week ➡ https://t.co/2ItTiVGe2D pic.twitter.com/6K7BLAfmHb
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) December 5, 2025
With Carlos facing Alex, we could have hardly asked for a more electric pairing. World no. 1 enters Melbourne with history within reach. Already a Roland Garros, Wimbledon and US Open winner, Alcaraz is chasing the ultimate milestone in Melbourne.
If he wins his first Australian Open crown next month, the 22-year-old will become the youngest man to complete a Career Grand Slam, potentially taking the record away from Rafael Nadal.
Carlos has lifted a Major trophy in four consecutive seasons, and he wants to extend that streak at the beginning of 2026 and write more tennis history. Before his official duels in Melbourne, Alcaraz will face de Minaur in the final preparation.
The relentless Aussie with tireless footwork and rising offensive weapons is one of the most dangerous rivals on hard courts, especially in front of his fans. The Aussies have been waiting for the home Australian Open winner since 1976!
Carlos Alcaraz & Alex de MInaur, ATP Finals 2025© Stream screenshot
While de Minaur is not the top favorite with Alcaraz and Sinner in the draw, he will try to use the boost and provide his A-game in front of the home fans. Carlos leads Alex 5-0 in the official matches.
Their most recent encounter came at the ATP Finals in November, and the Spaniard provided a 7-6, 6-2 victory in an hour and 41 minutes. Their next clay may not be official, but they will both take it seriously.
.It's a chance to test timing, patterns and nerves under the lights of a Major event.
