The excitement at the Australian Open 2026 is palpable as day five unfolds, featuring a lineup that promises thrilling matches. Today, all eyes are on Novak Djokovic as he aims for his remarkable 101st victory in this prestigious tournament. Alongside him, Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek are set to take the stage, while the dynamic duo of Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis gears up for their doubles debut.
Before we dive into the action, let’s highlight the Australian wildcards Rinky Hijikata and Taylah Preston, who are both looking to achieve personal milestones at their home Grand Slam. Additionally, qualifier Dane Sweeny has a tough challenge ahead, facing the eighth seed Ben Shelton in what could be an upset.
Stay tuned for live updates from Melbourne Park as the day progresses!
Key Matches to Watch
- Match Updates
- 22 minutes ago: The action is heating up as the clock ticks towards midnight.
- 59 minutes ago: We’re gearing up for some exciting matchups!
Local Hopes in Action
What time are the Australians playing on day five?
By Jon Healy
Here’s a rundown of the Australian players competing in singles today, listed with their respective times in AEDT:
- Valentin Vacherot (30) vs Rinky Hijikata (WC) on Kia Arena (Starting soon)
- Linda Noskova (13) vs Taylah Preston (WC) second on Kia Arena
- Ben Shelton (8) vs Dane Sweeny (Q) second on John Cain Arena
- Laura Siegemund vs Maddison Inglis (Q) from 1pm on ANZ Arena
- Jannik Sinner (2) vs James Duckworth (WC) starting at 7pm on Rod Laver Arena
Defending Champion Back in Action
Madison Keys had a rocky start against the slice-focused Oleksandra Oliynykova but faces a different test today as she goes up against Ashlyn Krueger, her fellow American. Standing tall at around 185 centimeters, Krueger is known for her powerful shots, setting the stage for a heavy-hitting contest.
Aussie Wildcard Alert
Wildcard Rinky Hijikata, who has yet to progress beyond the second round at his home Grand Slam, is about to face off against the 30th seed, Valentin Vacherot. For those unfamiliar with Vacherot, he made headlines as the unexpected champion of the 2025 Masters, overcoming significant odds to triumph. Ranked 204th, he qualified for the Shanghai Masters and surprised everyone by defeating top seeds before clinching the title against Arthur Rinderknech. Now, he carries the pressure of being a seeded player, and Hijikata will look to turn the tables today.
Doubles Matchup
When will Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios play?
By Jon Healy
The defending champions of the men’s doubles, Kyrgios and Kokkinakis, are back to defend their title, taking on fellow Australians Marc Polmans and Jason Kubler. This matchup on Kia Arena is slated to begin no earlier than 4pm AEDT, marking the only doubles event scheduled for the main courts today.
Who’s Competing on Day Five?
By Jon Healy
Day five showcases an impressive roster of eleven top-10 seeds in both the men’s and women’s singles, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation and mixed loyalties among fans. The day kicks off on John Cain Arena with defending champion Madison Keys against Ashlyn Krueger.
Also featured are Italian fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti, who will face fellow compatriot Lorenzo Sonego on Margaret Court Arena, and sixth seed Jessica Pegula battling it out with McCartney Kessler, a name that perfectly embodies an all-American vibe. Following these matches, US eighth seed Ben Shelton will challenge Australian qualifier Dane Sweeny after Keys and Krueger’s clash.
As the afternoon session begins at 1:30pm AEDT, fourth seed Novak Djokovic seeks his 101st Australian Open win against Francesco Maestrelli on Rod Laver Arena, while Amanda Anisimova, the fourth seed in the women’s draw, meets Katerina Siniakova on Margaret Court.
Tonight, watch for second seed and defending champion Jannik Sinner as he takes on local wildcard James Duckworth, followed by fifth seed Elena Rybakina. The evening schedule on John Cain Arena includes women's second seed Iga Swiatek and men's ninth seed Taylor Fritz, while Swiss tenth seed Belinda Bencic will wrap up the action on ANZ Arena.
Welcome to Day Five
By Jon Healy
Melbourne Park is buzzing with energy as we near the end of the first week of the Australian Open, and today promises a fantastic array of matches. Notable players like Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek, and two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner will be in action, along with five hopeful Australians.
With Rinky Hijikata kicking off the day at 11am AEDT, let’s dive right into the exhilarating world of tennis!
