With ranking points, massive prize pools, and the momentum for the Australian Open on the line, the “Down Under” swing is the ultimate proving ground.
Here is your comprehensive guide to the 2026 kickoff, the star-studded entry lists, and the players favored to hoist the trophies.
1. United Cup (Perth & Sydney)
Dates: January 2 – January 11, 2026
Level: Mixed Team Event (500 Points)
The season officially begins with the United Cup, a high-energy mixed-gender team competition held across Perth and Sydney.
* The Field: Team USA returns as the defending champion, led by world-class talent in Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz. They face stiff competition from Team Poland, spearheaded by the dominant Iga Swiatek and Hubert Hurkacz.
* The Highlights: Look out for the debut of Team Japan, featuring four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka. Home favorites Australia will rely on their new top-ranked woman, rising star Maya Joint, alongside veteran Alex de Minaur.
* The Favorites: Poland and the USA are the heavy favorites due to their balanced singles depth. However, Germany (Zverev/Lys) and Greece (Tsitsipas/Sakkari) remain dangerous dark horses.
2. Brisbane International
Dates: January 4 – January 11, 2026
Level: WTA 500
Brisbane has secured one of its most elite lineups in years, serving as the premier individual warmup for the Australian Open.
Sabalenka
* The Field: World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka headlines the draw. She is joined by a powerhouse cast including Elena Rybakina, Jessica Pegula, and defending Australian Open champion Madison Keys.
* The Highlights: Keep an eye on the “Young Guns”—18-year-old Mirra Andreeva and the resurgent Amanda Anisimova, both of whom finished 2025 in spectacular form.
* The Favorites: Aryna Sabalenka is the woman to beat in Brisbane. Her power game thrives on the quick Queensland courts, though Elena Rybakina (who ended 2025 on an 11-match win streak) is a neck-and-neck contender.
3. ASB Classic (Auckland)
Dates: January 5 – January 11, 2026
Level: WTA 250
Auckland continues its tradition of being the “boutique” tournament where legends and rising stars collide in an intimate setting.
Navarro
* The Field: The entry list is topped by Elina Svitolina and Emma Navarro. Fans will also be treated to appearances by icons Venus Williams and Sloane Stephens, both of whom received wildcards.
* The Highlights: Local interest will be at an all-time high for New Zealand’s Lulu Sun. Additionally, the tournament features “The Future of the WTA” with the debut of Philippine star Alexandra Eala and American prodigy Iva Jovic.
2026 Australian Swing: At a Glance
* The Favorites: Emma Navarro and Elina Svitolina are the logical frontrunners, but Naomi Osaka (who may play here if her United Cup schedule permits or as a primary focus) is the emotional favorite to finish the “unfinished business” she left in 2025.
Who is the Overall “Down Under” Favorite?
Heading into the first month of 2026, Aryna Sabalenka remains the gold standard. After reclaiming the World No. 1 spot at the end of 2025, her hard-court dominance makes her the favorite in any draw she enters.
However, the “Big Three” of the WTA (Sabalenka, Swiatek, and Rybakina) will be under immense pressure from Coco Gauff, who has made significant technical strides in the off-season.
> Pro Tip for Fans: Watch the early rounds of the United Cup in Perth. The fast conditions there often provide a “sneak peek” at who has the best timing before the tour moves to the slightly slower surfaces of Melbourne Park.
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Viorica Bruni Editor Athletica Sports Web Publication
