Jiri Lehecka vs Arthur Gea Preview & Prediction | 2026 Australian Open | First Round

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Jiri Lehecka takes on Arthur Gea in round one of the Australian Open.

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 Jiri Lehecka vs Arthur Gea ticket information

Jiri Lehecka vs Arthur Gea prediction

Jiri Lehecka is ranked inside the top 20 of the world rankings after a strong 2025, which saw him win a title in Brisbane, make the final of Queen’s Club and equal his best ever run at a Grand Slam with a run to the last eight at the US Open. The Czech attempted to defend his title in Brisbane at the start of the month but was forced to retire from his match with Sebastian Korda in round two.

He faces Arthur Gea. The Frenchman is ranked 197 in the world and is making his main draw debut at a Grand Slam. Gea has made an incredible start to the year, as he won his first Challenger title in Noumea and then picked up three consecutive wins in qualifying. He has won all seven of his matches in 2026.

In normal circumstances, this would be a straight-forward victory for Lehecka. However, Gea is match-tough and will want to make a fast start against Lehecka, who may need a bit of time to get going. The Czech should still win, but Gea has enough rhythm in his game to make at least one set uncomfortable.

Jiri Lehecka vs Arthur Gea tip: Jiri Lehecka to win 3-0 or 3-1