Sports | Novak Djokovic vs Lorenzo Musetti Australian Open 2026 Quarterfinal: Start Time, Live Streaming in India and US
By Newzvia
Quick Summary
Novak Djokovic faces Lorenzo Musetti in the Australian Open 2026 quarterfinals at Rod Laver Arena on January 28, 2026, at 4:30 AM UTC. The 24-time Grand Slam champion holds a dominant head-to-head record over the young Italian. Fans in India and the US can catch the live action through major broadcasters.
Novak Djokovic vs Lorenzo Musetti: Australian Open 2026 Quarterfinal Preview
Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, takes on rising Italian star Lorenzo Musetti in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open 2026 at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena. Scheduled for January 28, 2026, at 4:30 AM UTC (3:30 PM IST on January 28, 11:30 PM ET on January 27), this hard-court clash pits experience against youthful ambition on one of tennis's biggest stages.
Match Start Time and Schedule
The quarterfinal is set to begin no earlier than 4:30 AM UTC, aligning with prime evening viewing in Australia. Expect potential delays based on preceding matches, so fans should monitor live updates for the exact start.
- Australia: Late night at Rod Laver Arena
- India: 3:30 PM IST, January 28
- US East Coast: 11:30 PM ET, January 27
- US West Coast: 8:30 PM PT, January 27
Live Streaming and TV Details
In India
Catch the action live on Sony Sports Network channels, with streaming available on SonyLIV app and website. A subscription is required for uninterrupted coverage of the Australian Open 2026.
In the US
ESPN holds broadcast rights, airing the match live on ESPN and ESPN2. Streaming options include ESPN+ for cord-cutters, ensuring comprehensive coverage from the quarterfinals onward.
Head-to-Head Record
Djokovic dominates the rivalry with a strong head-to-head advantage, winning 9 of their 10 meetings according to recent stats, though some records list him at 15-4 overall since 2021. Musetti's sole major victory came at the 2024 French Open, where he upset Djokovic 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 on clay after eight prior losses.
- Djokovic leads 9-1 in sets (22-7)
- Notable wins for Djokovic: 2024 Wimbledon semifinal (6-4, 7-6(3), 6-3) and 2024 Roland Garros quarterfinal
- Musetti's breakthrough: 2024 Roland Garros fourth round
On hard courts like Melbourne Park, Djokovic holds all victories, showcasing his superiority in high-stakes environments.
Player Form and Path to Quarterfinals
Djokovic, currently ranked No. 4, has powered through the draw with his signature baseline consistency and defensive prowess. Musetti, ranked No. 5, has impressed with his one-handed backhand, drop shots, and tactical variety, reaching his first Australian Open quarterfinal.
The Serb's career stats highlight unmatched endurance: over 900 main draw wins and a 93% win rate in recent head-to-heads. Musetti, at 23, brings momentum from a strong 2025 season, including recent victories.
What to Watch For
Djokovic will rely on his first-serve dominance (65% average) and break-point conversion to control rallies. Musetti must disrupt with angles, topspin, and net approaches to repeat his clay-court magic on hard courts.
Tennis fans worldwide anticipate a competitive battle, with Djokovic favored but Musetti capable of an upset.