Hunter and Inglis Shine as Full Main Draw Unveiled

The Australian Open has officially unveiled the full main draw, featuring standout performances by local talents Storm Hunter and Maddison Inglis. Both players secured their spots in the singles main draw, a milestone for Hunter following her return from significant injury.

Storm Hunter Shines in Australian Open Qualification

On January 16, 2026, Storm Hunter marked her return to Grand Slam tennis by defeating American Taylor Townsend. In a thrilling encounter, Hunter won with scores of 7-6(6) and 6-2. This victory is her first main draw appearance since her injury hiatus that began in early 2025.

At 31 years old, Hunter expressed her determination to return to competitive tennis. “I just felt like I had unfinished business,” she stated after her match. The former doubles world No. 1 articulated her journey back from a ruptured Achilles, reflecting on the challenges faced during her recovery.

• Match Stats:
  • Unforced Errors: Hunter 14, Townsend 36
  • Break Point Efficiency: Hunter had 40% success

A Promise to Keep Fighting

Hunter highlighted the mental hurdles she overcame during her recovery. “It’s a new challenge. Let’s just give it a crack and see,” she noted. Riding a wave of momentum, she concluded the match with an ace, adding a surprising flourish to her victory. “I was very happy after I hit that ace,” she remarked.

Looking ahead, Hunter will compete against Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the opening round of the main draw.

Maddison Inglis Qualifies At Last

Maddison Inglis also achieved a significant milestone by defeating Tamara Korpatsch with scores of 6-4, 6-4. This win was particularly emotional for Inglis as it secured her place in the Australian Open main draw for the first time since her wildcard entry in 2022.

“It was a massive few days, and I’m pretty tired, to be honest,” Inglis commented after her win. Her journey through the qualifying rounds was fraught with challenges, having reached the final round in the previous two years but falling short.

Emotional Triumph

Inglis’s reaction after securing her spot was heartfelt, as she collapsed on the court amidst overwhelming emotions. “I’ve been hoping for that feeling for the last three years,” she admitted. Family and friends were present to witness her success, adding to the joy of the moment.

Inglis will face fellow Australian Kimberly Birrell in the first round, ensuring at least one Australian will advance to the next stage of the tournament.

Other Notable Australian Players

Alongside Hunter and Inglis, other Australians also qualified for the men’s and women’s main draw at this year’s Australian Open:

• Talia Gibson against Anna Blinkova (world No. 62)
• Taylah Preston vs. Shuai Zhang (world No. 73) for redemption after a prior loss
• Tristan Schoolkate, now in the top 100, will face 32nd-seed Corentin Moutet from France

As anticipation builds, the Australian Open is set to commence this Sunday, promising exciting matches and moments for both players and fans alike.