Preston powers to first Grand Slam match win at Australian Open 2026

Taylah Preston continues her rich vein of form with a milestone win over Zhang Shuai at the Australian Open.

Tuesday 20 January 2026
Tennis Australia
Melbourne, Australia
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 20: Taylah Preston of Australia acknowledges fans after her victory against Shuai Zhang of China in the Women's Singles First Round during day three of the 2026 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 20, 2026 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

Following her semifinal breakthrough at the Hobart International, Taylah Preston has achieved another milestone with a first win in a Grand Slam main draw at the Australian Open.

Ranked world No.161 and a wildcard recipient at her home major, Preston defeated 75th ranked Zhang Shuai 6-3 2-6 6-3 to set a contest with No.13 seed Linda Noskova.

 

Registering 26 winners – including 15 from her potent forehand - Preston required one hour and 33 minutes to complete her come-from-behind win.

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