Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has officially solidified its status as the home of elite tennis in the Indian subcontinent by extending its exclusive broadcast partnership with Tennis Australia. The renewal ensures that the Australian Open, the world’s first Grand Slam of the year, will remain on Sony screens for an additional three seasons.
Since 2015, SPNI has been the primary destination for tennis fans in India. This new agreement secures exclusive television and full digital rights across a vast regional footprint, including India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
The partnership extension guarantees comprehensive access to one of the most prestigious events in the global sporting calendar. Fans can expect a premium viewing experience featuring live matches, expert studio analysis, and in-depth highlights in multiple languages.
Key Details of the SPNI and Tennis Australia Agreement:
| Feature | Details |
| Duration | 3 More Seasons |
| Rights Included | Exclusive TV & Full Digital |
| Primary Platforms | Sony Sports Network & Sony LIV |
| Next Tournament Start | January 13, 2026 |
| Regional Reach | India and 7 neighboring nations |
The Australian Open has historically been the stage for legendary battles involving icons like Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal. This renewal underscores SPNI’s commitment to delivering top-tier global sports to an audience with a growing appetite for diverse content.
Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer and Head of Sports Business at SPNI, highlighted the event’s evolution into a “marquee property.” He noted that the extension reflects the network’s deep understanding of viewer preferences across both traditional television and digital streaming platforms like Sony LIV.
Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia, commended SPNI’s role in expanding the tournament’s reach. He emphasized that the renewed agreement ensures that the high-stakes storytelling and world-class action of Melbourne Park will continue to captivate fans across various screens.
The road to the first Grand Slam of 2026 is already set. Fans in the region can tune in for live and exclusive coverage:
- Television: Sony Sports Network channels.
- Digital: Sony LIV app and website.
- Date: Beginning January 13, 2026.
As the digital landscape evolves, the inclusion of full digital rights is a strategic move to cater to the surge in “anywhere, anytime” viewing habits among sports enthusiasts in South Asia.
Key Highlights:
- Partnership Renewal: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has extended its exclusive broadcast deal for the Australian Open for three additional seasons.
- Comprehensive Access: The agreement covers exclusive TV and digital rights for India and the Indian subcontinent, including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
- Long-term Association: SPNI has been the official broadcaster since 2015, focusing on providing multilingual coverage and expert analysis across its sports network.
- 2026 Start Date: The next edition of the tournament is scheduled to begin on January 13, 2026, streaming live on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV.