Christopher O’Connelll vs Nishesh Basavareddy Preview & Prediction | 2026 Australian Open | First Round

Updated January 19 2026, 07:39

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Christopher O’Connell faces Nishesh Basavareddy in round one of the Australian Open.

Start date/time:

Venue: Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – ESPN

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ / USA – ESPN+ & Tennis Channel

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Christopher O’Connelll vs Nishesh Basavareddy ticket information

Christopher O’Connelll vs Nishesh Basavareddy prediction

Christopher O’Connell was handed a wildcard to compete in his home slam, with the Australian ranked 118 in the world. He has one victory from his three matches in 2026 so far. He defeated Nikoloz Basilashvili but then lost to Dane Sweeny in Brisbane qualifying, before falling to defeat against Jacob Fearnley in Adelaide. The 31-year-old’s best result in Melbourne was a third-round appearance in 2022.

He takes on Nishesh Basavareddy in round one. The American comes into this match having won all three stages in qualifying. He overcame a 7-1 deficit in the deciding set tiebreak against Sebastian Ofner in the second round. Basavareddy then came from a set down to beat George Loffhagen and seal his place in the main draw. 

O’Connell has the home advantage, but Basavareddy does have momentum behind him after those wins in qualifying. This is likely to be decided in four or five sets, with a place in the second-round of a major on the line. 

Christopher O’Connelll vs Nishesh Basavareddy tip: Over 3.5 sets