The Australian Open 2026 media day was a captivating affair, brimming with anticipation and a myriad of insights from the tennis stars. Here are some of the most memorable quotes from the event, offering a glimpse into the minds of these athletes as they gear up for the Grand Slam.
Embracing the Moment: The Defending Champion's Perspective
Madison Keys, the 2025 women's singles champion, expressed her excitement about returning to the scene of her Grand Slam breakthrough, Melbourne Park. She shared, "Even though I’ve been on this tour for a long time, this is also still my first experience as [defending champion]. I’m really just trying to soak in all of, like, the really cool fun parts, like walking in and seeing a picture of me holding the trophy. I could have never dreamed of that happening."
Strategic Approach: Planning for Success
Jannik Sinner, aiming for a third consecutive Australian Open men's singles triumph, revealed his trusted formula for success. He stated, "I think this is my main goal for this year. I’m just hungry for the title, hungry to do a really good result here … I’m really excited about the tournament begin[ning]."
Focusing on Redemption: Overcoming Past Challenges
Aryna Sabalenka, after a three-set loss in the 2025 singles final, is determined to make amends. She said, "I don't compare generations … I enjoy watching them. I enjoyed playing them, too. I see that as a fan of tennis in general. The level has been amazing to watch those 20 years with different generations. As a competitor, it's been amazing to face them. Always a big challenge."
Reflecting on a Decade of Competition: The Veteran's Perspective
Stan Wawrinka, who will contest his last AO draw in 2026, shared his thoughts on competing against past and present greats. He remarked, "It’s pretty crazy that it’s already been 10 years competing in the main draw. Ultimately every single player in the draw is extremely tough … It’s going to be a battle, but I’m looking forward to it. It basically just means that I’m going to have to be firing from the word ‘go’."
Embracing the Grand Slam Spirit: The Australian's Perspective
Alex de Minaur, the Australian No.1, offered a wise perspective on the Grand Slam experience. He said, "It’s a Grand Slam and every Grand Slam you want to perform and do your best, and you want to take advantage of the moment now because tomorrow isn’t promised."
Living in the Moment: The Young Star's Approach
Coco Gauff, a champion at Roland Garros and the US Open, emphasized the importance of living in the moment. She shared, "I think it’s great opportunity to test myself … I’m grateful so far to all of my doctors that have done an incredible job getting me back on court, to my team who has been persistent and believing in the process."
A Fresh Start: Overcoming Challenges
Stefanos Tsitsipas, after a challenging 2025 season impacted by injuries, is embracing a fresh start. He said, "I would say my New Year's resolution is to be unapologetically myself. I will say this every year, but to have fun, so ... Yeah, I just want to confidently stand with the decisions that I make."
Positive Vibes: The Former World No.1's Outlook
Naomi Osaka, the former world No.1 and two-time Australian Open champion, begins the 2026 season with positive vibes. She shared, "I mean, I think I’ve played the level a lot more than I did last year. That [my AO debut in 2025] was like my first big ever WTA match so I think I’ve learnt a lot from the women that I’ve played over the past year… I think it’s definitely helped my tennis and my confidence… It really lifts your level."
Transitioning to Professional Tennis: The Junior World No.1's Journey
Emerson Jones, the former junior world No.1, is focusing on her transition to the professional tour. She said, "Coming in as a main draw player gives a different vibe, apparently with the struggles I’ve has in the past coming here. Super excited and coming in full force, yeah."
Main-Draw Debut: Rising Star's Story
Alexandra Eala, after exiting in the first round of AO 2025 qualifying, makes her main-draw debut as a top-50 star this January. Her journey from the qualifying rounds to the main draw is a testament to her resilience and determination.
