2026 Brisbane International Overview
The upcoming Brisbane International is set to kick off the 2026 ATP season as one of two ATP 250 tournaments, alongside the Hong Kong Open. Taking place at the Queensland Tennis Centre from January 5 to January 11, this event promises an exciting lineup of players as they look to start the year strong.
Past Champions and Defending Title
Among the illustrious past champions of the Brisbane International are tennis legends such as Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Lleyton Hewitt, and Andy Roddick. Jiri Lehecka, the defending champion after his successful run in 2025, aims to reclaim the title this year. Last season, Lehecka not only triumphed in singles but was also a finalist in doubles with his partner Jakub Mensik, although they ultimately fell short to Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool.
In an unexpected twist during the singles final last year,
Lehecka’s opponent, Reilly Opelka, had to retire after just five games, securing Lehecka’s victory without a complete match.
Both players are returning for the 2026 edition, setting the stage for another potential showdown.
New Talents and Top Contenders
A highlight of the tournament will undoubtedly be the debut of 19-year-old Brazilian talent, Joao Fonseca, who has already made waves by defeating Andrey Rublev at the 2025 Australian Open. Australian fans are familiar with his prowess, and he will enter the Brisbane competition as one of the seeded players, eager to make a mark ahead of the Australian Open.
Competing against Fonseca and Lehecka, Daniil Medvedev, a former world No. 1, is expected to be a top contender. After a mixed performance in 2025, Medvedev is aiming to regain his previous form and secure a place back in the ATP Top 10 this year. Other seasoned players, such as Denis Shapovalov, Tommy Paul, and Frances Tiafoe, will also vie for the prestigious title, each bringing their own experience and motivation to the court.
Entry List Highlights
The entry list for the 2026 Brisbane International not only includes established stars but also features a fresh crop of rising talents like Learner Tien and Alex Michelsen, alongside the Breakthrough Player of the Year, Valentin Vacherot. These young athletes are keen to seize the opportunity and start their season on a high note.
The complete entry list highlights the competitive landscape players will face:
- Daniil Medvedev (13)
- Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (14)
- Jiri Lehecka (17)
- Tommy Paul (20)
- Denis Shapovalov (23)
- Joao Fonseca (24)
- Cameron Norrie (27)
- Learner Tien (28)
- Frances Tiafoe (30)
- Valentin Vacherot (31)
- Tomas Machac (32)
- Brandon Nakashima (33)
- Corentin Moutet (35)
- Ugo Humbert (37)
- Alex Michelsen (38)
- Grigor Dimitrov (44)
- Daniel Altmaier (46)
- Sebastian Korda (48)
- Camilo Ugo Carabelli (49)
- Reilly Opelka (50)
- Alexei Popyrin (54)
- Marton Fucsovics (55)
- Adam Walton (WC)
With this mix of seasoned competitors and thrilling debuts, the 2026 Brisbane International is set to be a captivating start to the tennis season.
