The entry lists for the January 2026 Australian Open were released this week, revealing seven players from the Chinese mainland set to compete in the men’s and women’s singles at Melbourne Park.
Leading the charge on the women’s side is 2024 runner-up Zheng Qinwen, joined by Wang Xinyu, Zhang Shuai and Wang Yafan, who returns via protected ranking. Zheng’s powerful baseline game and recent run to the semifinals at the WTA Finals have fans excited about her chances on the hard courts of Melbourne.
On the men’s side, Zhang Zhizhen and Shang Juncheng qualified through protected rankings, while Buyunchaokete secured a wildcard entry. Both Zhang and Shang have climbed into the ATP’s Top 50 this season, marking a steady rise for Chinese mainland men’s tennis.
The Australian Open will feature all of the world’s Top 10 players. Two-time champion Aryna Sabalenka and defending champion Madison Keys headline a star-studded women’s draw, while World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz aims for his first title at Melbourne Park. Jannik Sinner will chase a historic third consecutive Grand Slam, and Novak Djokovic, at 38, looks to extend his record with an 11th Australian Open crown and a 25th major overall.
With a blend of rising stars from the Chinese mainland and the game’s most established champions, January’s Grand Slam promises high-stakes matchups and breakout performances. Tennis fans worldwide will be watching as these seven players embark on their Australian Open journey.
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Seven Chinese players to compete in singles events at Australian Open
cgtn.com
