Australian Open 2026: Know Novak Djokovic’s schedule, timings, records on the line, and streaming details
As the 2026 Australian Open nears, attention shifts to Novak Djokovic, the "King of Melbourne," who aims for his 25th Grand Slam title. He can become the oldest man to win a Grand Slam in the Open Era
Last Updated: 05.27 PM, Jan 16, 2026
As the first Grand Slam of the 2026 season approaches, all eyes are once again on the "King of Melbourne," Novak Djokovic. At 38 years old, the Serbian legend returns to the Australian Open not just as a competitor, but as a living record-book in motion. Ranked world No. 4 and coming off a historic 2025 season highlighted by his Olympic Gold in Paris, Djokovic is on the precipice of a milestone that would settle the "Greatest of All Time" debate for many.
Here is everything you need to know about his schedule, the records at stake, and how to catch the action live from anywhere in the world.
The quest for 25: Records on the line
Djokovic currently shares the all-time record for the most Grand Slam singles titles (24) with the legendary Margaret Court. A victory at Melbourne Park would move him to 25 major titles, making him the undisputed leader in tennis history across both the men’s and women’s games.
Furthermore, a win would mark his 11th Australian Open title, extending his own men’s record. If he lifts the trophy on February 1st, he will also become the oldest man in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam singles title, surpassing Ken Rosewall’s long-standing record.
Novak Djokovic’s match schedule
Djokovic begins his 2026 campaign against Spain’s Pedro Martinez. Having been placed in the same half of the draw as two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner, a blockbuster semifinal rematch of their 2024 clash is the projected path to the final.
| Date | Round | Potential Stage |
| 18–20 January | Round 1 | vs. Pedro Martinez |
| 21–22 January | Round 2 | TBD |
| 23–24 January | Round 3 | TBD |
| 25–26 January | Round 4 | Round of 16 |
| 27–28 January | Quarter-finals | TBD |
| 30 January | Semi-finals | Projected vs. Jannik Sinner |
| 1 February | Men’s Final | Championship Match |
How to watch in India?
Fans across India can follow Djokovic’s journey through SonyLIV, accessible via OTTplay Premium. Coverage typically begins daily at 5.30 AM IST and 10 AM IST at Rod Laver Arena.
Can Novak do it?
While Djokovic remains the sentimental and statistical favourite for many, the 2026 landscape is fiercer than ever. Carlos Alcaraz enters as the world No. 1, seeking to complete his Career Grand Slam by winning his first title in Melbourne.
Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner is chasing a rare "three-peat" after dominant displays in the previous two editions.
For Djokovic, the mission is clear: defy age once more and claim the 25th Slam that has remained tantalizingly within reach for over a year.