How to Watch Sonay Kartal vs Janice Tjen at ASB Classic 2026: Sky Sports+, World Feed with Anne-Marie Batson & WTA TV Guide

Tennis fans in the UK, US, and Australia gearing up for the 2026 ASB Classic in Auckland have prime viewing options for the exciting WTA 250 clash between Sonay Kartal and Janice Tjen on January 6 at 00:00 UK time. UK viewers can catch the action live on Sky Sports+ streaming, featuring the world feed commentary led by Anne-Marie Batson, while WTA TV mirrors the same high-quality world feed production. This opening-round match promises early fireworks in the women's draw at the Manuka Doctor Arena, with Sky Sports delivering seamless coverage for British audiences as part of their extensive tennis rights package that includes major WTA events.[1][4]

The ASB Classic, a storied WTA 250 tournament on outdoor hard courts, runs from January 5 to 11, 2026, serving as the perfect warm-up for the Australian Open. Held at the ASB Tennis Centre in Parnell, Auckland, it attracts global stars, with wildcards going to legends like Venus Williams and Elina Svitolina, alongside rising talents. For this specific match, Sky Sports+ in the UK provides dedicated streaming, ensuring fans don't miss a point from the 00:00 UK time start, which aligns with prime evening slots in New Zealand.[2][3]

Commentary Team: Anne-Marie Batson Leads the World Feed

At the heart of the broadcast is Anne-Marie Batson, the main commentator for the world feed, bringing her wealth of experience to Sky Sports+ and WTA TV. Batson, a veteran British tennis commentator, has covered countless WTA and ATP events over her illustrious career, including multiple Grand Slams and Olympic Games. Known for her insightful analysis and engaging style, she has worked extensively with the BBC and Eurosport, providing colour on British players like Kartal. Her transition to world feed productions has elevated coverage of mid-tier events like the ASB Classic, offering viewers nuanced breakdowns of player tactics and form.[1]

Batson's career highlights include calling Andy Murray's US Open triumph in 2012 for BBC Radio and contributing to live TV coverage of the Australian Open. Her passion for women's tennis shines through, particularly when spotlighting emerging stars from the UK. For Kartal vs Tjen, expect Batson to delve into Kartal's breakout 2025 season and Tjen's seeding (No.6 in the draw), drawing on her decades of courtside expertise to enhance the viewing experience across Sky Sports+ streams.[4]

Sonay Kartal: Britain's Rising Star Heads to Auckland

Sonay Kartal, the 23-year-old British talent, enters the ASB Classic aiming to build on her momentum. The London-born player, who trains at the Lawn Tennis Association's National Tennis Centre, stunned the tennis world in 2024 by winning her maiden WTA title in Tunisia and reaching the US Open fourth round as a qualifier. Kartal's powerful baseline game and resilience make her a threat on hard courts, and facing seeded Janice Tjen offers a golden opportunity to notch an early upset.[1]

Kartal's journey from ITF circuits to WTA main tours exemplifies grit, with her 2025 ranking climb securing direct entry here. UK fans on Sky Sports+ will relish Batson's home-nation bias, highlighting Kartal's potential to emulate fellow Brit Katie Boulter, who also received a wildcard. For more on Kartal's career, check out her player profile.

Janice Tjen: Indonesia's Seeded Contender

Opposing Kartal is Janice Tjen, the No.6 seed from Indonesia, whose aggressive all-court style has propelled her into the spotlight. Tjen, part of a burgeoning Indonesian tennis scene alongside players like Aldila Sutjiadi, earned her seeding through consistent 2025 performances on Asian swings. This Round of 32 encounter tests her against Kartal's firepower, with the winner advancing to face top seeds like Svitolina or emerging stars like Alexandra Eala.[4]

Tjen's inclusion underscores the ASB Classic's global appeal, blending established seeds with qualifiers like Whitney Osuigwe. Batson's commentary will likely reference Tjen's doubles prowess and singles breakthroughs, adding depth for international viewers on WTA TV.

Where to Watch: Channel Breakdown for UK, US, and Australia

Sky Sports+ leads for UK audiences, streaming the world feed at 00:00 UK time on January 6. Sky's tennis portfolio, covering WTA 250s to Grand Slams, ensures HD quality and multi-angle replays. In the US, while ESPN holds broader WTA rights, this event falls under the world feed accessible via WTA TV or streaming partners. Australian fans can tap into beIN Sports or Foxtel, often syncing with world feed, though Sky Sports streams are increasingly available via VPN for expats.[1][4]

WTA TV, the official streaming hub, broadcasts the world feed worldwide, making it ideal for cord-cutters. No blackouts apply for this WTA 250, ensuring broad access.

Event Highlights and Draw Context

The women's draw features intrigue: top seeds like Asia Muhammad/Erin Routliffe in doubles, and singles wildcards including Sloane Stephens and Naomi Osaka confirmed earlier. Day 4 (January 6) packs multiple matches, but Kartal vs Tjen stands out for its upset potential. Prize money hits $283,347 total, with $3,065 for Round of 32 winners, incentivising fierce competition.[1][4]

• Follow live scores on the WTA Official Site.
• Explore Auckland's tennis legacy, from Ruia Morrison's 1959/60 wins to modern global battles.
• Venue upgrades at Manuka Doctor Arena include shaded terraces and festival vibes.

Player Backgrounds and Career Insights

Sonay Kartal's ascent is meteoric; after ITF successes, her 2024 WTA 125 title in Larnaca marked her arrival. Training under LTA coaches, she's eyed as Britain's next big thing post-Emma Raducanu. Janice Tjen, meanwhile, represents Indonesia's push in women's tennis, with junior Grand Slam experience fueling her pro rise. Learn more about the ASB Classic history.[2]

Anne-Marie Batson's punditry adds gravitas; her BBC stints covered Justine Henin eras, and now she mentors young commentators. Sky Sports leverages such expertise for immersive broadcasts.

Tournament Atmosphere and Beyond

Auckland's summer spectacle blends top-tier tennis with Kiwi hospitality. Expect evening sessions under lights, food activations, and family-friendly vibes. For Brits, the 12-hour time difference means late-night viewing, but Sky Sports+ recordings cater to schedules. US and Aussie fans enjoy more favourable timings.[3]

As the Australian swing kicks off, this match could signal breakout runs. Tune in via Sky Sports+, WTA TV, or world feed proxies for Batson's expert call. With draws featuring Eala, Jovic, and Williams, the ASB Classic 2026 sets the tone for an epic season.

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