The 2026 United Cup is about to begin, as they embark on the new season carrying the honor of their country.

As the calendar turns to the first page of 2026, the new tennis season officially enters its countdown. The opening match of the year's first event, the United Cup, will kick off at 10:00 AM Beijing time on January 2nd, featuring a men's singles clash between Munar of Spain and Baez of Argentina in Perth's Group A.

Zhu Lin prepares for the United Cup (Photo: Visual China)

Zhang Zhizhen (Photo: Visual China)

On January 3rd Beijing time, China's team will face Belgium, led by Mertens and Berghs, in their first match. The Chinese squad is captained by Wu Di, with Zhu Lin and Zhang Zhizhen as key players, alongside participants You Xiaodi, Terigele, and Wang Aoran. This marks Zhu Lin's debut in this team event, while Zhang Zhizhen will compete in the United Cup as his season opener for the third consecutive year.

Having arrived in Sydney yesterday, the Chinese team collectively visited the Sydney Zoo. Zhang Zhizhen said in an interview, "The United Cup is always different from other tournaments; you have to fight for every point. Even winning one more point or one more set helps the team secure victory."

Alcaraz (Photo: Visual China)

On January 4th, China is expected to face a tough battle against Canada, represented by current ATP top 5 player Alcaraz and last year's WTA Best Newcomer Mbuco. "This is my first time playing in the United Cup and completing the full Australian season, so there will definitely be many new experiences," said Mbuco, who was ranked No. 333 this time last year and has now broken into the top 20.

Alcaraz is a regular representative for Canada in team events. "I have many great memories from team competitions in Australia, including winning the ATP Cup in Sydney a few years ago. Winning the United Cup again would be wonderful," he said.

Naomi Osaka (Photo: Visual China)

Raducanu (Photo: Visual China)

Besides Zhu Lin and Mbuco, many players including Grand Slam champions Naomi Osaka and Raducanu are making their first appearances. Osaka and Raducanu will face off in a key match on January 4th Beijing time, with Raducanu currently leading their head-to-head 1-0. Sharing Perth’s Group E with Japan and the UK teams is Greece, led by Tsitsipas and Sakari, making the group highly competitive with every match outcome affecting qualification chances.

Wawrinka recently announced that 2026 will be his final professional season. Despite over 20 years on the tour, he remains a newcomer to the United Cup. In 2023, Wawrinka served as both captain and player, securing a vital singles win for Switzerland. This year, he reunites with the team aiming to surpass their previous performance. Wawrinka said, "I enjoy everything tennis has given me, especially the emotions playing in front of fans worldwide. I look forward to seeing them again."

Defending champion USA team (Photo: Visual China)

The defending champion USA team, led by last year’s champions Gauff and Fritz, returns to Australia aiming to retain the title. In last year’s final, Gauff won the opening women’s singles in straight sets against Swiatek, a pivotal moment that shifted the match’s momentum; Fritz fought through three sets to narrowly defeat Hurkacz, securing the championship for the team. Poland continues to be anchored by Swiatek and Hurkacz, with both Perth and Sydney teams expected to meet again in the final.

Host nation Australia, led by De Minaur and Johnstone, competes in Sydney’s Group D, facing Czech Republic led by Krejcikova and Mertens, and Norway led by Ruud in the group stage. Additionally, Italy with Paolini and Cocciaretto, and Germany with Zverev and Liss, are also strong contenders for the title.

2026 United Cup groupings overview

The new tennis season is about to commence, with 18 strong teams gathered in Australia. The United Cup battle is ready to ignite—let’s cheer for the Chinese team together!

(Written and edited by: Dato)