Australian Open 2026 Women’s Day 1

Two-time Australian Open winner Aryna Sabalenka stormed ahead as she began her quest for a Melbourne Park trophy hit-trick on Sunday, defeating Madagascar-born Frenchwoman Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah 6-4, 6-1 to open her account.

The world No. 1 lifted the title here in 2023 and 2024 but lost the final a year ago to American Madison Keys. if she reaches the final in a fortnight, Sabalenka will be the first since Martina Hingis who touched six on the trot – winning the first three – from 2997 to 2002. 

Sabalenka lost the opening game as she found her feet against an unfamiliar opponent but quickly settled in with a break-back as she settled in.

The top seed imposed on her 20-year-old lefty opponent – who now goes  by the name Sarah for simplicity’s sake – playing on the biggest stage of her career.

The youngster drew applause for a razor-sharp cross-court volley return which crossed the net and landed well out of Sabalenka’s reach.

The seed responded with a polite racquet but went on to close out victory after 74 minutes with tennis legends Rod Laver and Roger Federer in the stands.

“I knew they were there, but I kept telling myself during the match not to look to them,” the winner said of the pressure.

The world No. 1 for a 74th week said she overcame a slow start.

“I didn’t start my best, she showed up great. It was a tricky start but I found my rhythm at the end of the first set. After that I felt more confident.

“I’m happy I was able to close this out in straight sets.”:

Jasmine Paolini pasted a smile on her face despite a pre-match case of nerves as the Italian booked the Australian Open second round in 70 minutes, 6-1, -2 over Aliaksandra Sasnovich on opening day.

The Melbourne event is into the second edition of a 15-day event, mimicking Roland Garros and now the US Open in padding the corporate bottom line with extra sessions.

Wimbledon, which plays the classic 14 days, remains the lone Grand Slam holdout in old-school scheduling.

Seventh seeded Italian Paolini, who reached two Grand Slam finals in 2024 finally came through despite missing out on three match points as she served for victory.

She finished the job a game later with a hold of serve and was pleased to go through early in the day in just 70 minutes.

“I played pretty good today, I didn’t expect that,: the 30-year-old said. “It’s tough to play the first round, especially against a qualifier.

“I was solid and well focused, so I’m happy.”

Paolini admitted: “Before the match I had nerves. But then I stepped onto the court and felt good from the first ball. It’s great to be back on the Rod Laver court.

The usually jovial Italian said she had to make an effort to feel lighthearted on the day.

“I told myself to smile a little bit otherwise you will play badly. It’s important for me to enjoy my tennis,even if I have to force myself to smile more.”

Greek Maria Sakkari a one-time world No. 3 who is working her way back from injury on a 52nd ranking, began the Grand Slam 6-4, 6-2 over Frenchwoman Leolia Jeanjean 6-4, 6-2.  

Sakkari came from 4-1 down in the first set to advance at a major where she has never been past the fourth round.

2023 Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova pulled out after a practice session with a shoulder injury.

“After everything I’ve been dealing with, I need to prioritize my health, even though this decision wasn’t easy,” she said. “Thank you all for your understanding and support.”

Her place in the draw was taken by US lucky loser Taylor Townsend, who then lost to countrywoman Hailey Baptiste 6-3, 6-7 (3), 6-3.

Elina Svitolina brought her title form from this month in Auckland to Melbourne, reaching the second round at her weakest Slam for the third time with a 6-4, 6-1 defeat of Cristina Bucsa.

Main photo:-Aryna Sabalenka in action on Rod Laver Arena – by ISF Ltd