The Australian Open 2026 is set to bring thrilling action not only in singles but also in doubles. With wildcard entries invigorating the doubles draw, tennis fans are anticipating fresh team dynamics and exciting matchups.
Notable Doubles Partnerships
Venus Williams, a former World No. 1, secured a wildcard to join the doubles competition. She will partner with Ekaterina Alexandrova, currently ranked No. 11 in singles. This new team debuts against Emiliana Arango and Elsa Jacquemot.
Meanwhile, Leylah Fernandez has teamed up with Hungary’s Timea Babos, a seasoned doubles player with four Grand Slam titles. They will compete against the 9th seeds, Cristina Bucsa and Nicole Melichar-Martinez, in their first match.
Local Representation
Daria Kasatkina, Australia’s No. 2 female player, has also received a wildcard. She will team up with Arina Rodionova, who has prior experience in the Australian Open, having reached the quarterfinals in doubles in 2016. This local pairing is expected to attract significant attention from the home crowd.
Top Seeded Teams
- Katerina Siniakova / Taylor Townsend: Two-time Grand Slam champions, seeded No. 1.
- Jasmine Paolini / Sara Errani: Experienced Italian duo, seeded No. 2.
Siniakova, a 10-time major doubles champion, has consistently performed well alongside Townsend, who brings a powerful finishing touch to their matches.
Emerging Players to Watch
Several rising stars will participate in the doubles draw, including:
- Iva Jovic partnered with Victoria Mboko.
- Clara Tauson alongside Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.
- Alexandra Eala teaming up with Ingrid Gamarra Martins.
These pairings include a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, making the doubles draw an exciting spectacle.
Other Noteworthy Partnerships
Jessica Pegula, a former doubles World No. 1, will compete with McCartney Kessler against the 5th seeds Gabriela Dabrowski and Luisa Stefani. Additionally, former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova will partner with teenager Tereza Valentova, creating a unique veteran-rookie duo.
As the tournament unfolds, these new team formations and competitive spirits will certainly make the doubles matches at the Australian Open a highlight for tennis enthusiasts.
