How to Watch Elsa Jacquemot vs Ajla Tomljanovic at Brisbane International 2026: Pippa Horn and Liz Smylie on 9Now and Stan Sport

The Brisbane International WTA 500 kicks off the 2026 tennis season with high anticipation, and one of the opening matches on Day 1 pits French talent Elsa Jacquemot against Australian wildcard Ajla Tomljanovic on Show Court 1. Scheduled for 01:00 UK time on Sunday, 4 January 2026, this Round of 64 clash promises early fireworks as fans tune in via Australian broadcasters 9Now and Stan Sport, both featuring expert commentary from main commentator Pippa Horn and co-commentator Liz Smylie[1][2]. These free-to-air and subscription platforms deliver comprehensive coverage of the event at Queensland Tennis Centre, ensuring viewers across Australia and beyond catch every rally[1].

For those in Australia, 9Now offers free streaming of the WTA action, making it accessible for fans eager to see local hope Tomljanovic in her comeback bid. Meanwhile, Stan Sport provides premium coverage with multi-court feeds and added features, perfect for dedicated tennis enthusiasts. UK and international audiences may need VPNs or check local listings, but the Australian feeds stand out for their quality production and insightful punditry[2]. The tournament, running from 4-11 January, boasts a $1,206,446 prize purse and features top seeds like Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina, and Jessica Pegula, setting the stage for the Australian Swing leading into the Australian Open[1][3].

Match Preview: Jacquemot vs Tomljanovic

Elsa Jacquemot, the rising French star, enters the main draw aiming to make her mark on the hard courts of Brisbane. Known for her powerful baseline game and improving consistency, Jacquemot has shown promise in recent seasons, breaking into the top 100 with aggressive play that suits the fast outdoor hard courts[1]. Facing her is Ajla Tomljanovic, the Sydney-born wildcard who received a boost into the draw thanks to her protected ranking and home support. Tomljanovic, a former top-30 player, has a storied career highlighted by her run to the US Open semi-finals in 2022, where she battled through injuries to face Aryna Sabalenka in an epic encounter. Her experience on Australian courts and fighting spirit make her a dangerous opponent early in the year[3].

This matchup on Show Court 1 starts at 11:00 a.m. local time (01:00 UK), following the Pat Rafter Arena schedule featuring stars like Sabalenka in doubles. Expect a competitive affair as both players seek momentum ahead of the Grand Slam season[2].

Commentary Team: Pippa Horn and Liz Smylie

Leading the broadcast on both 9Now and Stan Sport is main commentator Pippa Horn, a veteran of Australian tennis coverage. Horn has built a reputation over decades calling matches for networks like Channel 7 and Nine, her smooth delivery and deep knowledge of the women's game earning her acclaim. With experience covering Grand Slams and the Olympics, Horn's play-by-play brings energy and precision, often highlighting tactical nuances that elevate viewer understanding.

Joining her as co-commentator is Liz Smylie, a tennis icon in her own right. Smylie enjoyed a distinguished playing career, reaching the Wimbledon doubles final in 1985 partnering with Gigi Fernandez and securing multiple Grand Slam mixed doubles titles. Retiring in the early 1990s, she transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, becoming a staple on Australian TV. Her analysis is renowned for its candour and insight, drawing from years on the tour, including Fed Cup triumphs with Australia. Smylie's rapport with Horn ensures engaging banter, making long sessions enjoyable for fans[1][2].

Brisbane International 2026: Tournament Highlights

The Brisbane International, founded in 2009, has cemented its status as a premier WTA 500 event on the outdoor hard courts of Queensland Tennis Centre. Past champions include legends like Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka, and three-time winner Karolina Pliskova, underscoring its prestige as a launchpad for the Australian Open[1]. This year's edition features a 48-player singles draw and 16-team doubles, with seven top-10 players committed, including world No.1 Sabalenka as the top seed[1][3].

Day 1's order of play packs excitement: On Pat Rafter Arena, Daria Kasatkina faces Anastasia Potapova, followed by Sabalenka/Badosa in doubles, then men's action with Alexander Vukic vs Frances Tiafoe and Nick Kyrgios in doubles. Show Court 1 hosts Jacquemot vs Tomljanovic, plus matches like Sorana Cirstea vs Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Sofia Kenin vs Elena-Gabriela Ruse[2]. Wildcards for Aussies like Kimberly Birrell, Talia Gibson, Emerson Jones, and Tomljanovic add local flavour[3].

How to Stream the Match

9Now: Free for Australian residents via the 9Now app or website. Sign up with an email and enjoy live and on-demand coverage of all WTA matches.
Stan Sport: Subscription required (part of Stan's broader package). Offers 4K streaming, no ad breaks during play, and full replay access.
International viewers: Check WTA TV listings or use authorised streaming partners. UK fans might explore Tennis Channel or Eurosport, though Australian feeds are primary for this early round[2].

Pundits and Presenters: Background Insights

Beyond Horn and Smylie, the tournament draws on Australia's rich tennis broadcasting talent. Smylie's playing pedigree includes a career-high singles ranking of No.19 and key roles in Australia's 1993 and 1995 Fed Cup wins. Her post-retirement work spans BBC, Eurosport, and Nine Network, where her no-nonsense style resonates with fans. Pippa Horn complements this with her extensive live event experience, having called finals at the Australian Open and beyond.

The event also spotlights presenters like those on Stan Sport, often featuring ex-players for studio analysis. For context, learn more about the Ajla Tomljanovic's career or the tournament's history via the WTA Brisbane page[1].

Why Brisbane Matters in the Australian Swing

As part of the Australian Swing, Brisbane offers crucial hard-court preparation. The 48-singles draw ensures deep runs for qualifiers, with prizes escalating from $11,920 in R64 to $134,600 for the champion. Doubles seeds like Hsieh Su-wei/Jeļena Ostapenko add star power[3][4]. Fans can follow draws and order of play on official sites for real-time updates[5].

Tomljanovic's wildcard stems from her protected ranking after injury layoffs, a nod to her resilience. Jacquemot, meanwhile, represents Europe's next wave, her powerful serve and forehand tested against Tomljanovic's crafty all-court game. With Sabalenka headlining elsewhere, this undercard match could steal headlines if it goes the distance[2].

Broader Coverage and Viewing Tips

Australian viewers dominate early-season WTA telecasts, but global interest surges with stars present. For more on the Brisbane International's legacy, including ATP/WTA fusion since 2019, explore official resources[3]. Stan Sport's app excels for multi-device streaming, while 9Now suits casual fans.

Expect Horn and Smylie to delve into Tomljanovic's injury battles and Jacquemot's breakout potential, enriching the narrative. As the match unfolds at 01:00 UK time, settle in for what could be a marathon on the demanding Brisbane courts. This event not only launches 2026 but reignites rivalries ahead of Melbourne[1].

With its electric atmosphere and pro-level facilities, Queensland Tennis Centre hosts an unforgettable week. Whether backing the home favourite or spotting an upset, the commentary duo ensures every point captivates. Tune in via 9Now or Stan Sport to experience the action live[2].

Final Viewing Notes

Coverage extends across courts, with potential for Jacquemot-Tomljanovic to stream uninterrupted. Prize money details: R32 at $13,735, incentivising strong starts. Follow seeds like Mirra Andreeva and Madison Keys in parallel action[1]. For full schedules, visit tournament sites.

This Brisbane opener exemplifies why the WTA 500 level thrives: blending emerging talents with veterans under expert eyes. Horn and Smylie's seasoned perspectives will guide viewers through strategies, stats, and stories, making it must-watch tennis[1][2]. (Word count: 1247)