With the happy slam kicking off in Melbourne, here’s what tennis fans need to know about streaming every match (and navigating the time zone difference)
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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
American players Taylor Fritz (ATP #4) and Coco Gauff (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).
How to Watch the Australian Open
ESPN+ will offer comprehensive coverage, including live-streaming of each match. Meanwhile, Tennis Channel will provide highlights, analysis, interviews, and replays. Select games will also be covered on ESPN and ESPN2.
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.
most coverage
Hulu + Live TV
While ESPN+ does not offer a free trial, a slight workaround exists. Hulu + Live TV includes ESPN+ and Disney+ and includes a 3-day free trial. In addition to ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV includes ESPN and ESPN2, though the Tennis Channel requires the sports pack add-on.
free trial
DirecTV Stream
Looking for an option with a free trial? DirecTV Stream gets subscribers to ESPN, ESPN2, and the Tennis Channel for live match coverage and analysis with the Choice package. DirecTV Stream’s free trial is five days for new subscribers.
best for sports fans
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.
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 ($33/mo for the first month) with Sports Pack add-on ($15/mo) includes each of those channels.
Australian Open Schedule
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. If you don’t mind catching a replay, ESPN2 will air the men’s final at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2 on Jan 26. An encore of the women’s championship will air at 9:30 a.m. ET on ESPN2 on Jan 25.