Top Seeds Face Thrilling Battles at Australian Open

The Australian Open promises thrilling matches with top seeds like Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka starting strong. Men's top seed Carlos Alcaraz aims for a Grand Slam with formidable opponents, while key players Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek eye significant milestones. Rising stars create potential surprises in their tennis pursuits.

Defending champion Jannik Sinner faces Frenchman Hugo Gaston in the first round of the Australian Open, seeking a third consecutive title, while women's top seed Aryna Sabalenka challenges wildcard Tiantsoa Rakotomanga. Men's top seed Carlos Alcaraz aims for a maiden Australian Open victory against Australian Adam Walton.

At Melbourne Park's draw ceremony, Novak Djokovic, ranked fourth, is set against Spaniard Pedro Martinez. Djokovic seeks a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, aiming for a quarter-final with Lorenzo Musetti and a potential semi-final against Sinner. Sinner is anticipating a competitive route, possibly meeting Brazilian Joao Fonseca.

Alcaraz faces Alex de Minaur in his draw, while Sabalenka eyes a semi-final with Coco Gauff. Second seed Iga Swiatek's path includes challenging matches, including a potential quarter-final with Elena Rybakina. Rybakina starts against Kaja Juvan, whereas Madison Keys has a challenging route ahead, including matches against Jessica Pegula and Amanda Anisimova.

(With inputs from agencies.)