Frances Tiafoe vs Jason Kubler Preview & Prediction | 2026 Australian Open | First Round

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Australia's very own Jason Kubler - a former doubles winner in this event - takes on Frances Tiafoe in the first round.

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 Frances Tiafoe vs Jason Kubler ticket information

Frances Tiafoe vs Jason Kubler prediction

World number one Frances Tiafoe has not enjoyed much success at the Australian Open in recent years. Since reaching the quarter-finals in 2019 - his best run in Melbourne - the American has not gone beyond the third round.

Having reached at least the quarter-finals in three of this last four appearances at the US Open, also a hard-court event, then it is somewhat surprising that he has struggled down under.

Local hope Jason Kubler will make his sixth appearance at his own Grand Slam, and indeed his first major participation in singles for two years with injuries having been a major issue for him during his professional career.

The 32-year-old has has some decent results on the Challenger Tour this month, and came through qualifying to reach the main draw, but Tiafoe should have too much for him.

Despite his modest recent record in this tournament, we expect the American's class to tell.

Frances Tiafoe vs Jason Kubler tip: Frances Tiafoe to win