The Australian Open 2026 reaches a blockbuster moment as world No.1 Carlos Alcaraz faces Australia’s home favorite Alex de Minaur in the men’s quarterfinals. The match will be played under the lights at Rod Laver Arena, with a semifinal place on the line.
Alcaraz is aiming for his first Australian Open semifinal, while de Minaur carries the hopes of a nation as he tries to make history on home soil.
Carlos Alcaraz vs Alex de Minaur Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Carlos Alcaraz vs Alex de Minaur |
| Round | Men’s Quarterfinal |
| Date | Tuesday, January 27, 2026 |
| Venue | Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park |
| Session | Night Session (second match) |
Start Time (Approx.)
- AEDT (Australia): 8:30 PM
- IST (India): 2:40 PM
- GMT: 9:10 AM
- ET (USA): 4:10 AM
The exact start time depends on the earlier night-session match. With extreme heat expected, the roof may be closed.
Live Telecast & Streaming
- India: Sony Sports Network (Sony Ten 1/2/5), Sony LIV
- Australia: 9Network (free-to-air), Stan Sport
- USA: ESPN, ESPN2, Tennis Channel; streaming on ESPN+ and Fubo
- UK: TNT Sports, Discovery+
- Worldwide: Official Australian Open broadcasters (availability varies by region)
Also see: What is a Walkover in Tennis?
Carlos Alcaraz: Current Form
The 22-year-old Spaniard has looked sharp throughout the tournament. Alcaraz has not dropped a set so far and has controlled matches with his speed, aggressive returns, and creative shot-making.
Path to the quarterfinals:
- R1: def. Adam Walton (straight sets)
- R2: def. Yannick Hanfmann (straight sets)
- R3: def. Corentin Moutet
- R4: def. Tommy Paul (straight sets)
Alcaraz’s best result in Melbourne has been the quarterfinals, making this a key test in his Australian Open journey.
Alex de Minaur: Current Form
De Minaur has been one of the most consistent players of the tournament, feeding off strong home support. The 26-year-old has impressed with his elite speed, return game, and court coverage.
Path to the quarterfinals:
- R1: def. Mackenzie McDonald
- R2: def. Hamad Medjedovic
- R3: def. Frances Tiafoe (straight sets)
- R4: def. Alexander Bublik (straight sets, no break points faced)
In 2026, de Minaur holds a 6–1 record and has been among the best returners in the draw.
Carlos Alcaraz vs Alex de Minaur Head-to-Head Record
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Meetings | 5 |
| Alcaraz Leads | 5–0 |
| Last Meeting | 2025 ATP Finals – Alcaraz won |
| Surfaces | Hard, Clay, Grass |
De Minaur has taken sets in a couple of matches, but he is still searching for his first win over Alcaraz. Recent encounters have been closer than the record suggests.
Carlos Alcaraz vs Alex de Minaur Match Prediction
Alcaraz enters as the clear favorite based on ranking, form, and head-to-head dominance. However, de Minaur’s speed and return pressure could push the match deeper than expected, especially with the crowd behind him.
Prediction: Carlos Alcaraz to win 3–1, with at least one tight set.
- A place in the Australian Open semifinals
- Alcaraz chasing a new milestone in Melbourne
- De Minaur trying to become Australia’s biggest men’s singles story in decades
- Speed vs speed, defense vs attacking creativity
This quarterfinal promises intensity, long rallies, and electric atmosphere inside Rod Laver Arena. Alcaraz brings confidence and flair, while de Minaur brings belief and home support. Whether it ends quickly or goes the distance, this is one match tennis fans won’t want to miss.
