The Auckland ASB Tennis Classic, one of the premier ATP 250 events, is currently underway at the Manuka Doctor Arena in New Zealand from January 12 to January 17, 2026. This tournament has established itself as a significant fixture in the tennis calendar, particularly for players seeking crucial match preparation ahead of the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the season.
This year’s event has attracted top talents, with American Ben Shelton as the top seed and Norway’s Casper Ruud as the second seed. Both players come into the tournament with high expectations, given their strong performances in the recent circuit. Shelton, with his explosive serve and powerful groundstrokes, is considered a serious contender, while Ruud’s consistent play and tactical prowess make him a difficult opponent for anyone on the hard courts.
The ASB Classic has a storied history, dating back to 1956, making it New Zealand’s largest professional sporting event. Previous champions have gone on to have remarkable success, with David Ferrer famously reaching the semifinals at the Australian Open shortly after winning the tournament in Auckland multiple times.
As the tournament progresses, players will be vying for their place in the draw, and spectators are eagerly anticipating the thrilling matches ahead. The competition this week is not just an opportunity for players to claim a title and share in the prize pool of $700,045, but also a vital stepping stone as they prepare to compete on the Grand Slam stage.
With the excitement building for the upcoming matches, fans can check the order of play and live scores on the official tournament website for real-time updates on matches and player performances. The Auckland ASB Tennis Classic promises to deliver memorable moments and high-stakes tennis as the countdown to the Australian Open continues.
