Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha Qualifies for 2026 Australian Open Doubles

Indian tennis player Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha has earned a major breakthrough by qualifying for the 2026 Australian Open men’s doubles main draw. Partnering Thailand’s Pruchya Isaro, he secured the spot after winning the Asia-Pacific Wildcard Playoff in a commanding performance.

Dominant Run in the Wildcard Playoff

The Indo-Thai pair delivered consistent results throughout the event, culminating in a straight-sets victory over Japan’s Seita Kusuhara and Katsuki Nakagawa. Their 6-4, 6-3 win in the final secured the coveted wildcard to Melbourne Park, marking a career-defining moment for the Indian player.

Career Milestone for Poonacha

The qualification marks Poonacha’s first Grand Slam main-draw appearance. The 30-year-old has spent much of his career competing on the ATP Challenger and ITF circuits, where he reached a career-high doubles ranking of world No. 98 and captured six Challenger titles. The opportunity in Australia now places him alongside elite international doubles teams.

Boost to Indian Tennis Representation

India has historically performed strongly in doubles at Grand Slam events, and Poonacha’s entry adds to that legacy. His achievement reinforces the nation’s presence in top-tier tennis and offers inspiration to rising players. Meanwhile, in the singles playoff, India’s Sumit Nagal exited in the quarterfinals of the 16-player draw.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha and Pruchya Isaro won the Asia-Pacific Wildcard Playoff.
• The duo defeated their Japanese opponents 6-4, 6-3 in the final.
• Poonacha’s career-high doubles ranking is world No. 98.
• The 2026 Australian Open begins on January 12 in Melbourne.

Looking Ahead to Melbourne Park

With the wildcard secured, Poonacha prepares to face world-class competition on one of tennis’s biggest stages. The Australian Open will be a defining platform for showcasing his evolving doubles game and testing his partnership at the highest level.