Despina Papamichail, who will finish the year ranked No. 162, will compete in the qualifying rounds of the Australian Open 2026 as she bids to secure a place in the main draw.
Australian Open organisers today announced the lists of players who will take part in the qualifying stages. In the women’s list, which starts from world No. 104 Polina Kudermetova (Uzbekistan), the name of Papamichail is also included.
The 33-year-old Greek tennis player, who will also be in Australia for the United Cup 2026, will need three wins in the qualifying rounds to advance to the main draw.
Her most recent tournament appearance was at the WTA 125 event in Quito, Ecuador, where she delivered an excellent performance, reaching the semi-finals.
Also competing in the qualifying draw will be Greek-Belgian player Sofia Kostoulas, currently ranked No. 163 in the world. Kostoulas is 20 years old and has roots in Trikala. In January 2022, she reached the final of the Australian Open Junior Championships, where she was defeated 2–0 in sets by Petra Marčinko.
In addition, 17-year-old Greek Australian tennis player Tahlia-Archontoula Kokkinis, ranked No. 613 in the world, will compete with a wild card. She is considered one of the rising “stars” of tennis in Australia.
The qualifying matches will take place from January 12–15 at Melbourne Park.
