With the happy slam kicking off Melbourne, here’s what tennis fans need to know about streaming every match (and navigating the time zone difference)
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
The first Grand Slam tournament of the year is here, as 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 defending singles champions of the Australian Open.
At a Glance: How to Stream the Australian Open
- TV Channel: ESPN, ESPN2, Tennis Channel
- Streaming: ESPN+, Sling, Fubo
- Dates: Qualifiers Jan 5 – Jan 8, Tournament Jan 11 – Jan 26 (dates adjusted to North American time zones)
American players Taylor Fritz (ATP #4) and Coco Guaff (WTA #3), who delivered a US win at the United Cup in mixed doubles, are also competing. American tennis fans looking to catch the Australian Open will need to adjust for the time zone — the East Coast is 16 hours behind Melbourne. Fortunately, a lot 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 Jan. 25 and Jan 26).
best value
ESPN+
ESPN+ will carry every match at the Australian Open, including live coverage, making it the best, most affordable option for streaming the tournament. The streaming service is available as a standalone for $11.99/mo, while the Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundle starts at $16.99/mo. ESPN+ does not offer a free trial.
best variety
Sling
Sling is known for its mix-and-match service that gets you 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 the Tennis Channel in one package, the Sling Orange + Blue with Sports Pack plan includes each of those channels.
best live streaming
Fubo
Fubo is a popular streaming service among sports fans. With plans starting at $79.99/mo, the streaming service is a streamlined alternative to cable and satellite, and it includes ESPN channels. The Sports Lite add-on ($9.99/mo) includes Tennis Channel for comprehensive Australian Open coverage.
Australian Open Schedule
Qualifiers run from Jan 6-9, (or Jan 5 for US viewers, because of the time zone difference). US coverage on ESPN+ begins on Jan 11 at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and 10 p.m. ET on ESPN2. The women’s and men’s singles final will take place on Jan 25 and Jan 26, though US fans will need to be early birds (or night owls), as finals coverage begins at 3:30 a.m. ET.
