Sinner draws Gaston as Sabalenka begins Open defence
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner will open his Australian Open campaign against France’s Hugo Gaston after the first-round draw was confirmed in Melbourne on January 15. The Italian starts his bid for another Grand Slam knowing early focus will be key.
“The first match sets the tone,” Sinner said. “There are no easy rounds here, so I have to be sharp from the first point.”
In the women’s draw, reigning champion Aryna Sabalenka was paired with a French wildcard as she launches her title defence. “Coming back as champion is special,” Sabalenka said. “But every match feels like a final.”
Former doubles champion Rennae Stubbs warned of early danger for the seeds. “The Australian Open starts fast,” she noted. “If you’re not ready, you’re gone.”
With the season’s first Grand Slam about to begin, Melbourne is braced for high intensity as the favourites aim to avoid early shocks.