ATP World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, WTA World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, and American star Taylor Fritz have arrived in Melbourne to kick off the 2026 Grand Slam season at the Australian Open.
The Spaniard was recently spotted connecting with fellow No. 1 Sabalenka before taking to the court with Fritz, treating onlookers to an exciting rally. Alcaraz begins the season at the Australian Open as the top seed, aiming to set the tone for the days to come.
Carlos Alcaraz Kicks Off Preparations by Bonding With Aryna Sabalenka Before Hitting With Taylor Fritz
Alcaraz capped off a phenomenal 2025 season, claiming eight tour titles, including two Grand Slams, the French Open and the US Open, and three Masters 1000 crowns in Monte Carlo, Rome, and Cincinnati. The Spaniard closed the year as World No. 1, boasting an impressive 71-9 win-loss record.
During the offseason, both Alcaraz and Sabalenka participated in a series of exhibition events in the United States, but with the new season underway, they quickly shifted their focus to preparation. While Alcaraz has yet to kick off the season, the Belarusian has already showcased her form, capturing the Brisbane International title with a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Marta Kostyuk in the final.
Upon arriving in Melbourne for the Australian Open, Alcaraz and Sabalenka were seen sharing a cheerful and lively bond. A clip that’s gone viral online captures the two Grand Slam champions enjoying a lighthearted moment with a few teammates. Though their conversation wasn’t audible, their camaraderie is unmistakable.
Carlitos with Aryna ❤️ pic.twitter.com/na9SvjZAEP
— f (@fvaeey) January 13, 2026
The Spanish star wasted no time, quickly stepping onto the courts with World No. 9 Taylor Fritz at Rod Laver Arena. The pair engaged in intense forehand rallies, each displaying focus and determination in their preparation.
Alcaraz Fritz hammering the cross court forehands pic.twitter.com/TFdG1SRW3c
— The Big Three (@Big3Tennis) January 13, 2026
Sabalenka closed out 2025 as the WTA World No. 1, compiling a 63-12 record, four titles, and nine finals appearances while leading the tour with $15 million in prize money.
The Belarusian finished as a runner-up at the French Open and Australian Open and later defended her US Open crown. In addition, she claimed two WTA 1000 titles and finished as runner-up at the WTA Finals.
Fritz, meanwhile, wrapped up the season with a solid 53-23 win-loss record, highlighted by title runs in Stuttgart and Eastbourne. However, his 2026 campaign has yet to gather momentum, with the American currently holding a 1-3 record.
