How to Watch Ben Shelton vs Sebastian Baez at ASB Classic Auckland 2026: Sky Sports, Tennis Channel & Commentators Guide

The ASB Classic Auckland 2026, an exciting ATP 250 opener to the tennis season, features a thrilling showdown between American powerhouse Ben Shelton and Argentina's gritty Sebastian Baez on January 15 at 23:30 UK time. UK viewers can catch the action live on Sky Sports channels including Sky Open, Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Tennis and Sky Sports+ streaming, while Tennis Channel in the US and Tennis TV worldwide offer comprehensive coverage, making it accessible for British, American and Australian fans alike.[1]

As the new tennis year kicks off in the scenic harbourside setting of Auckland, New Zealand, this match promises high-stakes entertainment with Shelton's booming serve clashing against Baez's baseline resilience. For those in the UK, Sky Sports dominates the broadcast landscape, holding exclusive rights to ATP events like the ASB Classic, ensuring crystal-clear HD streams and expert analysis. American audiences turn to Tennis Channel, the go-to network for premium tennis coverage, often utilising the world feed for reliability. Australians can access via streaming services or regional sports networks, though Sky NZ provides a local flavour for Kiwi fans Down Under.[2]

Tuning in is straightforward: Sky subscribers in the UK select Sky Open for the dedicated feed with lead commentators, or hop to Sky Sports Tennis for wall-to-wall ASB Classic action. The match's late-night UK slot aligns perfectly with prime time in New Zealand, heightening the drama under the Southern Hemisphere lights.

Commentators Breakdown: Who’s Calling the Key Points?

Leading the commentary on Sky Open and Sky Sport 1 NZ / HD is veteran New Zealand broadcaster Stephen McIvor, paired with co-commentator Sebastian Lavie. McIvor, a staple in Kiwi sports media, has built an illustrious career spanning decades, calling everything from rugby to tennis for Sky NZ. His deep knowledge of the local scene, honed through years at the mic for events like the ASB Classic, brings authenticity and passion. McIvor's smooth delivery and insightful breakdowns have made him a fan favourite, often hosting radio shows like "Summer Days with Stephen McIvor" that dissect Pacific sports.[6]

Sebastian Lavie, the co-commentator, is a rising star in tennis analysis for Sky NZ, with over 50 logged appearances on the network according to commentator databases. Lavie's expertise shines in player profiles and tactical insights, frequently teaming with McIvor for Auckland tournaments. His background in tennis journalism adds layers to matches, helping viewers appreciate nuances like Shelton's lefty spin versus Baez's topspin defence.[2][5]

Switching to Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Tennis, Sky Sports+ streaming, Tennis Channel (US) and Tennis TV, the coverage defaults to the polished world feed production. This neutral, high-production feed ensures global consistency, perfect for international audiences including those in Britain, the US and Australia.

The world feed itself boasts Lee Goodall as main commentator and Miles Maclagan as co-commentator. Goodall, a British tennis voice with extensive ATP and WTA experience, is renowned for his articulate play-by-play and historical context. Maclagan, a former top-100 player turned elite coach, brings insider knowledge—having mentored stars like Laura Robson and Johanna Konta. His punditry dissects techniques with precision, making complex rallies accessible. Together, they elevate the world feed to must-watch status for tactical enthusiasts.[1]

Player Spotlight: Ben Shelton vs Sebastian Baez

Ben Shelton, the 23-year-old American sensation, enters as a tournament favourite. Son of former ATP pro Bryan Shelton, Ben burst onto the scene with a breakout 2023, reaching the US Open semis and thrilling with his 140mph serves and athleticism. Now a top-20 staple, Auckland offers Shelton a chance to claim an early title, building momentum for the Australian Open. His aggressive style—big lefty forehands and net charges—could overwhelm Baez on the fast outdoor hard courts.

Opposing him is Sebastian Baez, the 25-year-old Argentine clay-court maestro who's adapting to hard courts. A two-time ATP title winner, Baez thrives on consistency, with a double-handed backhand and counter-punching game. Ranked around the top 30, he's no pushover, having upset higher seeds in past 250s. Expect a battle of styles: Shelton's power versus Baez's grit.

The ASB Classic itself, held at the Manuka Doctor Arena, has a rich history as an ATP Auckland staple since 2009. Past champions like John Isner and Roberto Bautista Agut highlight its status as a key warm-up for Melbourne's majors.[3][4]

Where and How to Watch: Channel-by-Channel Guide

Sky Open (UK): Stephen McIvor (main), Sebastian Lavie (co). Ideal for immersive local-style coverage.
Sky Sport 1 NZ / HD: Same duo, perfect for Australian viewers with VPN or streaming access.
Sky Sports Main Event (UK): World feed main commentator.
Sky Sports Tennis (UK): World feed, non-stop tennis hub.
Sky Sports+ streaming (UK): World feed main and co, flexible for cord-cutters.
Tennis Channel (US): World feed, with potential US overlays; essential for Stateside fans.[1]
Tennis TV: World feed main and co, global streaming app for £7.99/month.
World Feed: Lee Goodall and Miles Maclagan, the backbone for most broadcasts.

British fans with Sky get seamless access via set-top boxes or NOW TV streaming. In the US, Tennis Channel requires cable or FuboTV. Australians might use Kayo Sports for similar ATP coverage, though Sky NZ streams are geo-blocked alternatives.

Background on the Broadcast Teams

Stephen McIvor's career trajectory is a masterclass in sports broadcasting. Starting in radio, he transitioned to TV, becoming Sky NZ's tennis linchpin. His work extends to podcasts and live events, with a knack for blending stats and stories. McIvor has called hundreds of matches, including local qualifiers like Finn Reynolds' doubles run.[3]

Sebastian Lavie complements with analytical depth, ranking high in Sky NZ's commentator stats alongside Jeff McTainsh and Rikki Swannell. His 37+ appearances on Sky Sport 1 HD underscore reliability.[5]

On the world feed, Lee Goodall honed his skills across European tours, while Miles Maclagan's playing days (peaking at No.48 doubles) inform his coaching-eye analysis. Maclagan's post-retirement shift to commentary and coaching has seen him grace BBC and Eurosport, adding gravitas.[1]

Tournament Context and Viewing Tips

The ASB Classic runs January 5-12 in reality, but this January 15 night session underscores its extended appeal into late prelims. Matches like Alejandro Tabilo vs Camilo Ugo Carabelli showcase the depth, also featuring McIvor and Lavie.[1] For optimal viewing, UK fans set reminders for 23:30 GMT; US East Coast at 18:30 ET. Use VPNs for geo-restricted streams if travelling.

Explore more via ATP Tour ASB Classic page, Sky Sports Tennis hub, or Tennis Channel site.

This clash isn't just a match; it's a preview of 2026's rising stars. Whether you're courtside in Auckland or cosy in London, Manchester or Melbourne, the commentary teams ensure every ace and rally resonates.

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