🎾 Ace News Alert: Big Names Miss Out on 2026 Australian Open! 🎾
The 2026 Aussie Open is set to start Sunday, January 18th, and it’s already turning heads—not just for its £55.7 million prize pot, but for those who won’t be on court. The tournament kicks off at Melbourne Park, promising stunning action, even as fans feel a twinge of disappointment over notable no-shows.
Britain’s Jack Draper, who’s still nursing a long-term arm injury, is off the roster to avoid further strains. Meanwhile, Holger Rune of Denmark, despite still floating in the world’s top 20, will sit out due to an Achilles tear from last October. Big bummer for Aussie fans: Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis will miss singles. Kokkinakis, post-shoulder surgery, had a short-lived return in Adelaide, while Kyrgios is mending knee and wrist troubles. But cheer up—they’ll team up for doubles!
France’s rising star Arthur Fils is out with a back stress fracture, and David Goffin from Belgium is giving his knees more time to heal before he bounces back. China’s Zheng Qinwen, last year’s runner-up, hits pause after elbow surgery, while Danielle Collins, Britain’s pantomime villain of 2025, heals a back injury.
Former world No.2 Ons Jabeur is embracing maternity leave, and Veronika Kudermetova, world No.7, is in recovery from surgery. China’s Wang Yafan and France’s Lois Boisson, a 2025 French Open semi-finalist, are also MIA, eyeing full fitness for later in the season.
As the event heats up, there’s still loads to look forward to. Be sure to grab a seat and witness the remaining grand slam magic unfold! 🏆✨