Emiliana Arango vs McCartney Kessler Preview & Prediction | 2026 Australian Open | First Round
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The first-round of the Australian Open sees Emiliana Arango face McCartney Kessler.
Start date/time:
Venue: Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia
Surface: Outdoor hard
How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – ESPN
How to watch online: UK – discovery+ / USA – ESPN+ & Tennis Channel
Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Emiliana Arango vs McCartney Kessler ticket information
Emiliana Arango vs McCartney Kessler prediction
Emiliana Arango is ranked exactly 50 in the world ahead of the Australian Open. She reached a career-high of 46 in 2025, backed up by some success in WTA Challengers along with solid performances in smaller events on the main tour. Her preparation for the first slam of the season has not been ideal, with Arango failing to get any wins under her belt in 2026.
She faces McCartney Kessler, who is ranked slightly higher than Arango. She produced some strong results on the tour last season, making the quarter-finals at the ATX Open and then getting through to the final in Nottingham during the grass court season.
They played each other right at the start of this month in Brisbane with Kessler winning 6-1 6-3 in the first-round. Arango has failed to get going this season and the American is favoured to pick up another victory in quick succession.
Emiliana Arango vs McCartney Kessler tip: McCartney Kessler to win
