The Australian Open 2026 entry lists have been released, and they're packed with exciting names! But here's where it gets controversial... While the list is full of familiar faces, there are a few notable absences that have fans buzzing. Let's dive into the details and explore the buzz around the entries and omissions.
The Dominant Djokovic and the Young Contenders
The men's field is led by the legendary Novak Djokovic, a 10-time Australian Open champion. After reaching the semifinals of all four Grand Slams in 2025, Djokovic enters as the world No.4, making him the oldest man in the Open era to achieve this feat in a single season. But he's not alone; the young contenders are ready to challenge him, with the likes of Holger Rune, the world No.15, aiming to make a comeback after rehabilitating from a ruptured Achilles tendon.
The Women's Field: A Battle of the Stars
The women's field is a star-studded affair, with the defending champion Madison Keys, the world No.2 Iga Swiatek, and the reigning Roland Garros champion Coco Gauff all set to battle it out. Swiatek, in particular, is targeting a career Slam in Melbourne after her 2025 Wimbledon victory. However, there are a few notable absences, including World No.64 Danielle Collins and 76th-ranked Ons Jabeur, who is currently on maternity leave.
Protected Rankings and Direct Acceptances
Former world No.1 Karolina Pliskova, China's Wang Yafan, and rising Thai talent Mananchaya Sawangkaew have entered using protected rankings. Additionally, four men—Chinese stars Shang Juncheng and Zhang Zhizhen, Finn Emil Ruusuvuori, and Australian favourite Thanasi Kokkinakis—have also entered using protected rankings. That makes Argentina's Thiago Agustin Tirante the last direct acceptance, ranked world No.101 at the time of the 17 November rankings on which men's entries are based. Frenchwoman Leolia Jeanjean is the last direct acceptance into the women’s field, ranked 103rd at the time of the 8 December entry deadline.
What do you think?
Are you excited to see the stars of tennis battle it out in Melbourne? Or do you think the absences of certain players will shake up the field? Let us know in the comments below!
