How to Watch Australian Open 2026 Replays: The Ultimate Guide for Fans in the US and Australia
The 2026 Australian Open is in full swing at Melbourne Park, delivering high-octane drama and world-class tennis. However, for many fans—especially those in the United States—the time zone difference can be a major hurdle. With matches often taking place in the middle of the night for US viewers or during the working day for Aussies, watching live isn’t always possible.
Fortunately, broadcasters in both regions offer robust replay and on-demand options so you never have to miss a match point. Here is your complete guide to watching Australian Open 2026 replays in the US and Australia.
For Viewers in the USA
In the United States, ESPN holds the exclusive broadcast rights, making their platforms the go-to destination for both live coverage and replays.
1. The Best Option: ESPN+ (Streaming)
For cord-cutters and hardcore tennis fans, ESPN+ is the most comprehensive tool for watching replays.
- What it offers: ESPN+ provides on-demand replays of practically every match from every court, not just the showdowns on Rod Laver Arena. You can usually find full match replays available shortly after the match concludes.
- How to watch: enhanced coverage is available via the ESPN App on smart TVs, tablets, and mobile devices. Look for the “Replay” tag on the Australian Open hub page within the app.
- Cost: Requires a standalone ESPN+ subscription or the Disney Bundle (Hulu/Disney+/ESPN+).
2. Cable Subscribers: The ESPN App
If you have a cable or satellite subscription that includes ESPN, you can use your provider credentials to log into the ESPN App or ESPN.com.
- On-Demand: You can access “WatchESPN” replays for matches that aired on the main broadcast channels (ESPN, ESPN2).
- Encore Broadcasts: ESPN2 frequently airs “Encore Presentations” of the day’s biggest matches during the morning and afternoon hours (typically 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET) for those who prefer traditional TV viewing.
3. Tennis Channel
While ESPN is the primary rights holder, Tennis Channel often provides “Daily Updates,” highlights, and analysis shows like Tennis Channel Live that recap the day’s action. This is great for catching up on the storylines if you don’t have time for a full 3-hour match replay.
For Viewers in Australia
Aussies have the luxury of the “Home Slam” taking place in their backyard, but work commitments can still get in the way of day-session matches. You have two excellent choices: a free option and a premium ad-free experience.
1. The Free Option: 9Now
The Nine Network is the official broadcaster, and their free streaming platform, 9Now, is a treasure trove for catch-up content.
- Catch-Up TV: 9Now features a dedicated “Australian Open 2026” section where you can watch full match replays of major matches.
- Highlights: If you’re short on time, 9Now posts extended highlights and “Mini Matches” (condensed versions of the game) so you can see the key moments in 10-15 minutes.
- Access: It is completely free to use, though you will need to create a Nine account and sign in. It is available on web browsers, iOS, Android, and most Smart TVs.
2. The Premium Option: Stan Sport
For the ultimate experience, Stan Sport is the add-on package for the Stan streaming service that covers the Grand Slams extensively.
- Ad-Free Replays: Watch every match from every court on demand, completely ad-free. This is a significant advantage over 9Now if you want to binge-watch sessions without interruption.
- 4K UHD: Stan Sport offers select big matches in 4K, providing the highest picture quality available.
- Full Library: Unlike free services that might cycle out content, Stan Sport typically keeps the full tournament library available for longer, allowing you to go back and watch early-round matches you might have missed.
Pro Tips for Spoiler-Free Viewing
Nothing ruins a replay like a push notification revealing the winner before you hit “play.”
- Turn off Notifications: Disable alerts from apps like FlashScore, ESPN, or the official AO app before you go to sleep.
- Bookmark the “Replay” Page: Instead of navigating through a homepage full of headlines and scores, bookmark the direct link to the “Replay” or “On Demand” section of ESPN+ or 9Now.
- Avoid Social Media: It sounds obvious, but stay off X (Twitter) and Instagram until you’ve watched the match!
Whether you are waking up in New York or getting home from work in Sydney, the 2026 Australian Open offers more ways than ever to watch the action on your own schedule. Enjoy the tennis!
