Australian Open 2026: Day 10 overview
Day 10 of the Australian Open marked a clear consolidation phase in Melbourne, as experience, physical readiness and tactical discipline increasingly separated contenders from challengers. With quarterfinal places on the line, the margins narrowed and the ability to manage momentum became decisive.
Across both draws, established names asserted control, while several breakthrough stories reached their natural conclusion against elite resistance.
Favorites impose authority
On the men’s side, Carlos Alcaraz navigated early resistance before pulling away decisively, demonstrating his ability to elevate his level once key moments were secured. Alexander Zverev also relied on experience to halt the impressive run of rising talent Learner Tien, adjusting his intensity as the match progressed and prevailing in four sets.
Both performances underlined the importance of composure and adaptability at this stage of a Grand Slam.
Momentum meets its limits
In the women’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka brought an end to Iva Jovic’s breakout tournament, absorbing early pressure before accelerating beyond the teenager’s reach. Elina Svitolina delivered one of the most commanding displays of the day, dismantling Coco Gauff with authority and confirming her growing momentum during the Australian swing.
These encounters highlighted how sustained pressure and mental clarity often outweigh youthful momentum in the later rounds.
Quarterfinal picture sharpens
As Day 10 concluded, the quarterfinal lineup began to reflect a familiar balance of proven contenders and resurgent forces. The remaining field now faces an even narrower margin for error, where execution under pressure and recovery between matches will play a defining role.
With the tournament entering its decisive phase, attention now turns to the challenges ahead in our Australian Open 2026: Day 11 Preview.

By jojo, Australia – Australian Open, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5854056