Australian Open Singles Draw Revealed: Zheng Qinwen, Wang Xinyu Lead Seven Chinese Players Into the Main Event

On December 9, the Australian Open officially released the list of players who have qualified for the 2026 singles main draw. A total of seven Chinese players have secured direct entry into next year’s tournament, including three in men’s singles and four in women’s singles, marking another encouraging milestone for Chinese tennis on the Grand Slam stage.

In the men’s singles field, 99 of the world’s Top 100 players have made the main draw. World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz will aim for his first Australian Open title, while reigning champion Jannik Sinner and 10-time tournament winner Novak Djokovic are also confirmed. The only Top 100 player missing is Holger Rune, currently ranked No. 15, who is still recovering from Achilles tendon surgery.

On the women’s side, the competition will be equally intense. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka will be joined by defending champion Madison Keys, World No. 2 Iga Swiatek, and reigning French Open champion Coco Gauff in the battle for the title. Two Top 100 players—Danielle Collins (No. 64) and Ons Jabeur (No. 76)—will miss the 2026 Australian Open main draw.

China will be represented by three players in the men’s singles draw. Zhang Zhizhen and Shang Juncheng both entered using protected rankings, while the other players utilizing protected rankings include Ruusuvuori and Kokkinakis. Meanwhile, Buyunchaokete earned his spot through the Asia-Pacific Wild Card Play-offs, securing a well-deserved main-draw wild card.

In women’s singles, four Chinese players will compete in the main draw, led by former finalist Zheng Qinwen, who will be returning to Grand Slam action for the first time since this year’s Wimbledon. The other Chinese players in the field are Wang Xinyu, Zhang Shuai, and Wang Yafan, with Wang Yafan also entering via a protected ranking.

The 2026 Australian Open is scheduled to take place from January 12 to February 1. The qualifying rounds will be held from January 12 to 15, while the main draw matches will run from January 18 to February 1, setting the stage for three thrilling weeks of world-class tennis in Melbourne.