Australian Open 2026 Day 10 Preview: Sabalenka, Zverev and Alcaraz Highlight Quarterfinal Showdowns

Day 10 at the Australian Open (Tuesday, January 27, 2026) features pivotal quarterfinal matches that will shape the latter stages of the tournament. From top-seeded champions seeking momentum to tactical battles between contrasting styles, here’s a closer look at the must-watch matches that promise high drama and headline-worthy tennis.

Sabalenka vs. Jovic — Power Play Meets Consistency

The Matchup

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka continues her hunt for the title as she faces Iva Jovic, a player whose steady all-court game has carried her deep into the draw and into the quarterfinal spotlight.

Official Match Link:
https://ausopen.com/match/2026-aryna-sabalenka-vs-iva-jovic-ws501

What to Watch

Sabalenka’s trademark firepower — including booming serves and punishing baseline strokes — has been a defining feature of her week in Melbourne. Her ability to dictate play with depth and precision makes her a formidable opponent in the second week.

Jovic, meanwhile, has navigated her path with consistency and tactical finesse, unsettling opponents with her patience and ability to extend rallies. While she may not bring the same raw power as Sabalenka, her court coverage and shot construction have been key to her success.

This quarterfinal shapes up as power vs. tactical steadiness. Sabalenka’s heavy hitting can create quick opportunities, but Jovic’s resilience and ability to weather pressure could force extended rallies and crucial turning points.

Key storyline: Can Jovic’s consistency slow Sabalenka’s offensive rhythm, or will the top seed’s power prove decisive once again?

Alexander Zverev vs. Learner Tien — Controlled Aggression vs Tactical Precision

The Clash

In a compelling men’s quarterfinal match, Alexander Zverev meets Learner Tien, a rising star with a methodical baseline game and tactical intelligence.

Head-to-Head & Match Info:
https://www.atptour.com/en/players/atp-head-2-head/alexander-zverev-vs-learner-tien/z355/t0ha

Tactical Breakdown

Zverev brings controlled aggression and a commanding serve that has carried him deep into major events throughout his career. His ability to hit with depth and timing allows him to seize control of rallies and apply pressure on both wings.

Tien, known for his strategic shot placement and calculated approach, can extend rallies and create openings with precision. His performance in Melbourne has highlighted his ability to adapt and respond under pressure, making this a fascinating tactical duel.

In this matchup — power meets placement — Zverev’s strength and consistency will be tested against Tien’s shot variability and tactical patience. Expect deep baseline exchanges and strategic shifts in momentum as each player tries to dictate from the outset.

Match outlook: Zverev’s experience on big stages gives him an edge, but Tien’s precision and focus could tilt key games in his favor if he maintains aggression without over-pressing.

Carlos Alcaraz vs. Alex de Minaur — Speed, Skill & Home-Court Spark

The Storyline

Two of the sport’s most electrifying athletes meet in a blockbuster quarterfinal as Carlos Alcaraz takes on Australian fan favorite Alex de Minaur — a clash that blends elite shot-making with relentless court coverage.

Head-to-Head & Match Details:
https://www.atptour.com/en/players/atp-head-2-head/carlos-alcaraz-vs-alex-de-minaur/a0e2/dh58

Tactical Preview

Alcaraz has been a standout force throughout the tournament, using a blend of powerful groundstrokes, creative angles and unmatched athleticism to command play. His variety allows him to transition from defense to offense fluidly, keeping opponents on their heels.

De Minaur, buoyed by home support and a reputation for blistering speed and tenacity, is no stranger to big moments in Melbourne. His defensive prowess and ability to turn defense into aggressive positioning make him a thrilling competitor on hard courts.

This matchup is all about pace, precision and tactical adaptability. Alcaraz will look to dictate with depth and placement, while de Minaur will aim to extend rallies and capitalize on openings with his speed and counterpunching.

What to expect: Intense baseline exchanges, rapid transitions and thrilling shifts in momentum — with crowd energy adding to the drama if this match reaches a deciding set.

Day 10 Storylines — What Fans Should Watch

Here’s why Day 10 matters:

• Quarterfinal intensity: With seeds and underdogs colliding, these matches shape the semifinal bracket.

• Home spotlight: De Minaur brings local support to one of the day’s biggest stages.

• Tactical intrigue: Sabalenka vs. Jovic and Zverev vs. Tien both offer contrasting styles worth studying.

As the Australian Open progresses deeper into the second week, Day 10 promises matchups that marry athletic excellence with strategic depth, rewarding fans with gripping tennis from start to finish.