Sony Sports Network has officially announced its comprehensive broadcast and livestreaming plans for the Australian Open 2026. Starting January 18, tennis enthusiasts across India can catch every moment of the year’s first Grand Slam live from Melbourne Park on Sony Sports Network channels and exclusively via Sony LIV.
To ensure maximum accessibility, the network will provide live commentary in four languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. The tournament features a world-class field, with Novak Djokovic eyeing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. He will face stiff competition from defending champion Jannik Sinner, world no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, and Alexander Zverev.
On the women’s side, the spotlight remains on Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka, with high-stakes matchups against stars like Coco Gauff and Elena Rybakina expected to draw massive viewership. The women’s singles final is set for January 31, followed by the men’s singles final on February 1.
Adding significant value to the viewing experience, Sony’s flagship studio show, Extraaa Serve, returns with a fresh look. For the 2026 edition, popular Australian sports presenter Grace Hayden makes her network debut as host.
She will be joined by an elite panel of experts:
- Sania Mirza: Six-time Grand Slam champion and Indian tennis icon.
- Somdev Devvarman: Olympian and Asian Games gold medalist.
- Vedika Anand: Renowned tennis commentator and analyst.
Indian fans have a major reason to cheer as Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha makes his historic Australian Open main-draw debut. Teaming up with Thailand’s Pruchya Isaro, the duo earned their spot by winning the Asia-Pacific Wildcard Playoff.
The tournament kicks off on a nostalgic note with a special Opening Ceremony exhibition match on January 17. Tennis legends Roger Federer, Andre Agassi, Patrick Rafter, and Lleyton Hewitt will return to Rod Laver Arena for a “Battle of the World No. 1s,” celebrating the tournament’s 120-year history.
Sony Sports Network’s latest campaign, ‘Where Greatness Begins the Australian Way’, bridges the gap between Indian sports fans and Melbourne’s electric atmosphere. By adapting the famous Australian chant into “Aussie Aussie…AO AO AO!”, the network aims to tap into the deep-rooted passion for Australian sporting culture in India.
Key Highlights:
- Live Broadcast: Sony Sports Network will air the Australian Open 2026 live from January 18 to February 1 in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.
- Expert Panel: Grace Hayden hosts the Extraaa Serve studio show featuring analysis from Sania Mirza, Somdev Devvarman, and Vedika Anand.
- Key Dates: The women’s final is scheduled for Jan 31, while the men’s final takes place on Feb 1, 2026.
- Legendary Return: Roger Federer and Andre Agassi will headline a special exhibition match on Jan 17 before the main draw begins.
