Where to Watch Ben Shelton vs Francisco Comesana at ASB Classic 2026: Sky Sports, Tennis Channel & World Feed Commentators Guide

The ASB Classic in Auckland kicks off the 2026 ATP season with an exciting second-round clash between top seed Ben Shelton and Francisco Comesana on January 13 at 22:30 UK time. Tennis fans in the UK can tune into Sky Sports Tennis and Sky Open, while those in New Zealand have Sky Sport 1 NZ / HD. American viewers should head to Tennis Channel, with additional coverage on Tennis TV and the world feed ensuring global access to this ATP 250 opener.[1][2]

Sky Sports Tennis, a staple for British tennis enthusiasts, delivers comprehensive coverage of the ASB Classic, often featuring the world feed for high-profile matches like this one. As one of the leading broadcasters for ATP events in the UK, Sky holds extensive rights and provides seamless viewing for fans ahead of the Australian Open. Similarly, Tennis Channel in the US is renowned for its in-depth tennis programming, offering live action from Auckland with expert analysis tailored for North American audiences.[1]

Match Preview: Shelton's Power vs Comesana's Grit

World No. 8 Ben Shelton, the tournament's top seed, launches his 2026 campaign after a stellar year that included a debut at the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin. The 23-year-old American, known for his booming serve averaging 9.8 aces per match in 2025, enters as a heavy favourite with a 32-23 record against top-100 players last season. Recent form includes a 7-6, 6-3 exhibition win over Nick Kyrgios, showcasing his elite serving that will test Comesana heavily.[1][2]

Francisco Comesana, ranked around No. 68, advanced with a straight-sets victory over Valentin Royer (6-2, 6-2 or 6-4, 6-4 per reports) in the first round. The Argentine struggled against top-10 foes in 2025, going 1-4, and has limited hard-court experience with just 32 career wins on the surface compared to 264 on clay. Prediction: Shelton in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.[1][2]

UK and NZ Coverage: Sky Sports Team Led by Storm Purvis

For UK viewers on Sky Open and Sky Sports Tennis, and Kiwis on Sky Sport 1 NZ / HD, presenter Storm Purvis anchors the broadcast. Purvis, a veteran Sky Sports host with over two decades in sports television, has covered major events like Wimbledon and the Australian Open, bringing her engaging style to Auckland. Main commentator Stephen McIvor, a New Zealand legend with 30+ years calling tennis for Sky NZ, offers insightful play-by-play. His career highlights include narrating countless ASB Classics and Pacific ATP events, earning him a reputation for his deep knowledge of local talent.[1]

Co-commentator Lee Radovanovich complements the team as a former Davis Cup player for New Zealand and long-time analyst. With a professional playing career peaking in the 1980s ATP ranks and stints as a coach, Radovanovich provides expert breakdowns on player tactics and court conditions at the scenic Auckland waterfront venue.[1]

US Broadcast: Tennis Channel's Star-Studded Lineup

Across the Atlantic, Tennis Channel features presenter Steve Weissman, a versatile host known from NFL and college basketball coverage before diving into tennis. Weissman’s energetic delivery has made him a fan favourite for late-night US sessions. Main commentator Mark Knowles, a Bahamian doubles maestro with three Grand Slam titles and an ATP doubles crown, transitioned seamlessly to broadcasting. His career stats include over 50 doubles titles, offering unique insights into Shelton’s net play and Comesana’s baseline resilience.[1]

Co-commentator Steve Johnson, a retired American singles star with five ATP titles and a Davis Cup contribution, adds recent pro perspective. Johnson peaked at No. 21 and now analyses for Tennis Channel, often highlighting serve-return dynamics crucial for this match. Pundits Nick Monroe, a doubles specialist with ATP 250 wins, and Prakash Amritraj, son of Vijay and a former top-100 player turned commentator, round out the panel with tactical depth.[1]

World Feed and Tennis TV: Global Standard

The world feed, used by Sky Sports Tennis and Tennis TV, is led by main commentator Lee Goodall, a British voice with vast experience on the ATP and WTA circuits. Goodall’s career spans decades, including Olympics and Grand Slams, praised for his calm, precise calls. Co-commentator Anna Smith, ex-British No. 1 and Fed Cup player, brings analytical flair from her pro days and BBC stints. Reporter Jordan Vandermade handles on-site updates, a rising star in tennis media with prior roles at Tennis Australia events.[1]

Tennis TV streams the world feed worldwide, perfect for cord-cutters seeking ad-free action on devices.

Why Tune In? ASB Classic's Australian Open Launchpad

The ASB Classic, an ATP 250 on outdoor hard courts, serves as prime prep for Melbourne. Past champions include Jannik Sinner (2021) and Hubert Hurkacz, with Shelton eyeing his first Auckland title. The Centre Court atmosphere, backed by Harbour Green mountains, adds allure. Winner faces Sebastian Baez or Jenson Brooksby in quarters, ramping up stakes.[2]

Shelton’s flamboyant lefty power – think 140mph serves – contrasts Comesana’s clay-bred defence. Expect ace-fests and baseline rallies under Auckland lights. UK fans get prime-time evening viewing; US early morning; NZ daytime thrill.[1][2]

Broadcaster Backgrounds: Voices Shaping Tennis Viewing

Sky Sports’ tennis coverage, bolstered by TNT partnerships, dominates UK airwaves for 100+ ATP events yearly. Their ASB Classic telecasts blend local Kiwi input with global feeds, ensuring authenticity. Presenters like Purvis excel in multi-sport roles, interviewing stars from Federer to Djokovic.

In the US, Tennis Channel boasts exclusive rights to 40+ tournaments, with pundits like Knowles (inducted into Tennis Hall of Fame trajectory) and Johnson providing ‘been there’ credibility. Amritraj’s Bollywood-tennis lineage adds cultural layers for diverse viewers.

World feed producers craft neutral, high-production broadcasts syndicated globally, with Goodall and Smith’s duo a gold standard – Smith’s WTA insights shine on mixed fields.[1]

How to Watch: Practical Tips for Global Fans

UK: Sky Open / Sky Sports Tennis – check Sky Go for streaming.
NZ: Sky Sport 1 HD – Sky NZ app.
US: Tennis Channel – cable or TC Plus stream.
Global: Tennis TV subscription; world feed via VPN if geo-blocked.

Live scores on ATP site or apps like Flashscore. Bets favour Shelton -3.5 games.[1][8]

Player Careers: Shelton's Rise, Comesana's Breakthrough

Shelton, coached by dad Bryan (ex-pro), rocketed from college champ (two NCAA titles) to top-10. 2025 highlights: US Open QF, Indian Wells MS1000 SF. Comesana, 24, broke top-100 in 2025 via challengers, clay specialist eyeing hard-court growth.[1][2]

Don’t miss this ASB Classic showdown – a perfect warm-up blending power, prediction and punditry. For more on the ASB Classic or Ben Shelton’s profile, explore official ATP pages. (Word count: 1427)