Where to Watch Daniil Medvedev vs Frances Tiafoe at Brisbane International 2026: Tom Rehn and Roger Rasheed on 9Now and Stan Sport

The Brisbane International ATP 250 kicks off the 2026 tennis season with high-stakes action on outdoor hard courts at the Queensland Tennis Centre in Tennyson, Australia. Fans eager to catch Daniil Medvedev versus Frances Tiafoe in the second round can tune into Australian broadcasters 9Now and Stan Sport, where veteran commentator Tom Rehn leads the coverage alongside co-commentator Roger Rasheed. This matchup, scheduled for 03:00 UK time on January 7, 2026, promises explosive rallies from two top talents, with Medvedev entering as the top seed after a dominant first-round win[1][6].

Australian viewers have prime access via free streaming on 9Now, Channel 9's digital platform, and the subscription-based Stan Sport, both delivering comprehensive coverage of the event from January 4-11. These platforms are staples for Down Under tennis enthusiasts, offering live matches, replays, and expert analysis without the need for international VPNs for local audiences. While British channels like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports, or TNT Sports, and American outlets such as ESPN or Tennis Channel, often cover major ATP events, this ATP 250 relies heavily on the world feed supplemented by Aussie commentary teams. No confirmed UK or US TV listings appear for this specific clash, directing global fans to streaming options or ATP's official channels[5][6].

Daniil Medvedev, the 29-year-old Russian world No.1 contender, opened his 2026 campaign with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over Marton Fucsovics in the first round, breaking serve early and controlling the 70-minute affair. Seven years after reaching the Brisbane final, Medvedev, the top seed, looks primed for a deep run ahead of the Australian Open[1]. His opponent, Frances Tiafoe, the charismatic American known for his athleticism and big serves, advanced to face the Russian in this night session on Pat Rafter Arena, listed around 10:00 PM local time[6]. This head-to-head could preview Australian Open form, with Medvedev's baseline precision clashing against Tiafoe's power game.

Leading the broadcast is Tom Rehn, a broadcasting icon with over three decades in sports media. Rehn's career began in radio before transitioning to television, where he became a fixture for Tennis Australia events. His encyclopedic knowledge and engaging style have narrated countless Australian Open moments, Davis Cup ties, and ATP tournaments. A former journalist turned play-by-play master, Rehn's smooth delivery makes complex rallies accessible, often drawing on his experience covering legends like Lleyton Hewitt and Pat Rafter. Paired with him is Roger Rasheed, a former coach to stars like Lleyton Hewitt and Gael Monfils. Rasheed's playing days peaked in the 1980s ATP circuit, but his punditry shines through tactical insights honed from guiding Hewitt to multiple Grand Slam titles and Davis Cup glory. His no-nonsense analysis on player movement and mental toughness adds depth to the commentary duo's dynamic.

The Brisbane International itself is a cornerstone of the Australian Open Series, this 15th edition blending ATP 250 men's and WTA 500 women's draws with 32 singles spots for men. Defending champion Jiri Lehecka, who won in 2025, started strong with a 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-2 win over Tomas Machac and faces Sebastian Korda next[1]. Other notables include Alex Michelsen versus Learner Tien, and Reilly Opelka's return after last year's final run. The schedule features day sessions from 10:30 AM and night sessions at 6:30 PM local time on Pat Rafter Arena, building excitement through second round on January 7[3][6].

For UK fans at 03:00 GMT, catching the match live means late-night viewing, but the electric atmosphere of Pat Rafter Arena under lights compensates. Brisbane's balmy summer conditions favour hard-court specialists like Medvedev, who thrives on pace, while Tiafoe must counter with variety to upset the seed. Historical context adds intrigue: Medvedev's Brisbane final loss in 2019 to Kei Nishikori underscores his familiarity, yet unfinished business fuels his drive[1].

How to Stream the Match

9Now offers free registration for Aussies, streaming all key matches ad-free during play. Stan Sport, at around AUD 20 monthly, provides 4K quality, multi-angle views, and on-demand replays, ideal for comprehensive tournament coverage. International viewers might access via VPN, but check local ATP TV rights. The tournament's world feed ensures high production values, with Hawkeye replays and player cams enhancing the experience.

Player Profiles and Form Guide

• Daniil Medvedev: 2025 saw him challenge for No.1, with deep Grand Slam runs. Brisbane victory reaffirms his hard-court dominance, boasting a 80% first-serve win rate in round one[1].
• Frances Tiafoe: US Open 2022 quarter-finalist, Tiafoe's 2025 resurgence included ATP titles. His Brisbane progress tests consistency against elite returners.

The broader draw heats up with Shapovalov's early exit, falling 6-4, 6-2 to Raphael Collignon, highlighting qualifier threats[2]. Women's side features Aryna Sabalenka's brisk opener and young Emerson Jones upsetting Tatjana Maria[8].

Why This Match Matters

As Australian Open prep, a Medvedev win bolsters his seed path, potentially setting semifinals against Lehecka or Korda. Tiafoe, seeking a statement victory, could disrupt the top half. Commentators Rehn and Rasheed will dissect serve holds—Medvedev saved all break points in round one—and rally lengths, key on Brisbane's medium-paced courts[1].

Rehn's career longevity mirrors the tournament's growth from a modest ATP 250 to Open Series staple, while Rasheed's coaching pedigree offers insider edges, like advising on Tiafoe's forehand improvements. Their synergy elevates viewing, blending Rehn's narrative flair with Rasheed's technical edge.

Tournament Highlights and Beyond

Brisbane's Pat Rafter Arena, named for the 1987 junior champ turned Grand Slam doubles winner, hosts night sessions till 11 PM. Ground passes allow court-hopping, with show courts featuring emerging talents like Michelsen[3]. Post-Brisbane, the calendar shifts to Australian Open qualifiers from January 18[4].

For more on the ATP Tour calendar, explore official schedules. Fans can delve into Daniil Medvedev's ATP profile or the Brisbane International page. This event underscores Australia's tennis passion, bridging United Cup and majors.

Whether streaming on 9Now or Stan Sport, settle in for Rehn and Rasheed's expert call as Medvedev and Tiafoe ignite 2026. Expect baseline battles, aces, and momentum swings in this pivotal second-rounder.

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