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The first Grand Slam tournament of the year takes place, while the world’s best tennis players are in Melbourne for the Australian Open. Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka, ranked number one in the ATP and WTA respectively, are the reigning Australian Open singles champions.
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At a glance: how to stream the Australian Open
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TV Channel: ESPN, ESPN2, Tennis Channel
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Dates: Qualifiers January 5-8, Tournament January 11-26 (dates adjusted to North American time zones)
American players Taylor Fritz (ATP #4) and Coco Guaff (WTA #3), who won an American victory at Plain cut in mixed doubles, are also competing. American tennis fans who want to attend the Australian Open will have to adjust to the time zone: the East Coast is 16 hours behind Melbourne. Fortunately, much of the action will take place in the afternoon and evening for North American fans (although the finals will take place at 3:30 a.m. ET on January 25-26).
BEST VALUE
ESPN+
ESPN+ will stream every Australian Open match, including live coverage, making it the best and most affordable option for streaming the tournament. The streaming service is available as a standalone for $11.99/month, while the Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundle starts at $16.99/month. ESPN+ does not offer a free trial.
BEST VARIETY
Sling
Sling is known for its mix-and-match service that lets you access your favorite channels, without having to pay for filler. Sling Blue with the Sports Pack includes the Tennis channel. If you want ESPN, ESPN2, and Tennis Channel in one package, the Sling Orange + Blue with Sports Pack package includes each of these channels.
BEST LIVE STREAM
Fubo
Fubo is a popular streaming service among sports fans. With plans starting at $79.99/month, the streaming service is a streamlined alternative to cable and satellite and includes ESPN channels. The Sports Lite add-on ($9.99/month) includes Tennis Channel for complete coverage of the Australian Open.
Australian Open Schedule
Qualifying will take place January 6-9 (or January 5 for U.S. viewers, due to time difference). US coverage on ESPN+ begins January 11 at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and 10 p.m. ET on ESPN2. The women’s and men’s singles finals will take place on January 25-26, although American fans will need to be an early riser (or night owl), as coverage of the final begins at 3:30 a.m. ET.
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