The first Grand Slam of 2026. Played on Plexicushion hard courts. The heat is the defining variable. Day matches can reach 40°C (104°F), decimating the stamina of players who had a short off-season. Betting against players who played deep into tournaments the week prior (in Adelaide or Auckland) is a viable strategy due to accumulated fatigue. The night session matches play slower and heavier. Novak Djokovic's historical dominance here has often skewed the futures market; look for value in the 'Quarter Winner' markets to hedge against the favorites.
Tennis is scored in a way that magnifies small edges, so a single break of serve can settle a set and a whole match. Surface speed, bounce height and altitude change how much a big serve or heavy topspin is worth. Rest days, travel between events and recent match load affect the deep stages of long formats. Interest usually sits on set handicaps, total games, tie break markets and correct set score.
Add the event to your calendar to keep the start time as the schedule is confirmed. Kick-off times are checked against the official schedule every week, so this page follows any change.