Get ready for a thrilling week of tennis as the ATP Tour heats up in Adelaide and Auckland, with stars like Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Ben Shelton, and Casper Ruud taking center stage. But here’s where it gets controversial: can Davidovich Fokina live up to the pressure of being the top seed for the first time? Let’s dive into the action and explore what makes this week unmissable.
Scouting Report: What Every Fan Should Know
January 11, 2026
The hard-court season continues in full swing as Adelaide and Auckland host ATP 250 tournaments, bringing fans a double dose of excitement on both sides of the Tasman Sea. Here’s a breakdown of what’s in store, with a mix of rising stars, seasoned veterans, and compelling storylines to keep you hooked.
Adelaide International: Five Key Storylines
Davidovich Fokina’s Top Seed Test: Sitting at a career-high No. 14 in the PIF ATP Rankings, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina steps into the spotlight as the top seed in Adelaide. But can he handle the expectations? After an early exit in Brisbane, the 26-year-old Spaniard faces either Tristan Schoolkate or Rinky Hijikata in his opener. This is his chance to prove he’s ready for the big stage—but will he rise to the occasion or crumble under pressure?
Tsitsipas’ Perfect Start Quest: Stefanos Tsitsipas, the former World No. 3, arrives in Adelaide fresh off a flawless 3-0 singles run in Greece’s United Cup campaign. Returning from a back injury that sidelined him since September, the Greek star exudes confidence. But here’s the twist: can he maintain this momentum against a qualifier in his opener? His performance could set the tone for his entire season.
Paul’s Redemption Arc: Tommy Paul, another player returning from injury, seeks his first win of the year after a tough loss in Brisbane. The American, a two-time Adelaide semi-finalist, faces either Reilly Opelka or hometown hero Alexei Popyrin. Will he find his rhythm, or will his comeback fall short?
Kokkinakis’ Emotional Return: Thanasi Kokkinakis, Adelaide’s hometown favorite, makes his long-awaited singles return after 12 months away due to an unprecedented pec injury. Facing Sebastian Korda in his opener, the 29-year-old returns to the venue where he won his maiden ATP Tour title in 2022. Can he recapture the magic, or will rust prove too much to overcome?
Cash/Glasspool Dominance Continues: In doubles, Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool lead the field as the top seeds. Fresh off a runner-up finish in Brisbane, the British duo aims to dominate in Adelaide. But with rivals like Harri Heliovaara and Henry Patten in the draw, will they maintain their winning streak?
ASB Classic in Auckland: Five Must-Watch Moments
Shelton’s Season Opener: Ben Shelton, currently No. 8 in the rankings, kicks off his season in familiar territory—Auckland. After his Nitto ATP Finals debut in November, the 23-year-old American faces either Francisco Comesana or Valentin Royer. Can he start the year with a bang, or will he struggle to find his footing?
Ruud vs. Mensik Rematch: Casper Ruud, fresh off a statement win against Alex de Minaur at the United Cup, enters Auckland as the second seed. But here’s the catch: he faces third seed Jakub Mensik, who beat him in straight sets in Sydney. Will Ruud avenge that loss, or will Mensik prove to be his kryptonite?
Monfils’ Final Curtain Call: At 39, Gael Monfils embarks on his farewell tour, starting in Auckland—the site of his 13th ATP Tour title last year. Will he go out with a bang, or is Father Time catching up? Former champions Alejandro Tabilo and Roberto Bautista Agut also join the draw, adding to the nostalgia.
Norrie’s Hometown Dream: Cameron Norrie, who grew up in Auckland, returns to the ASB Classic with one goal: winning the title. After runner-up finishes in 2019 and 2023, the fifth seed opens against qualifier Hugo Gaston. Is this finally his year, or will history repeat itself?
Bhambri/Goransson Lead Doubles Charge: Yuki Bhambri and Andre Goransson top the doubles draw in Auckland, but they face stiff competition. Brisbane champions Francisco Cabral and Lucas Miedler, along with the seasoned duo of Sadio Doumbia and Fabien Reboul, are ready to challenge. Who will emerge as the doubles kings?
Controversial Question for You: With so many players returning from injury or seeking redemption, who do you think will rise to the top this week? And do you believe Davidovich Fokina can handle the pressure of being the top seed? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
