January 22, 2026
World
World
TOKYO, Jan 22 — Japan has halted the restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant just hours after it began, though the reactor remains “stable,” the operator said.
SYDNEY, Dec 31 — Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, nicknamed “Sincaraz,” are set to kick off the 2026 season ahead of the Australian Open, while world number one Aryna Sabalenka aims for further Grand Slam success.
The season begins with the mixed-teams United Cup in Perth and Sydney, featuring Iga Swiatek and Alexander Zverev. Sabalenka starts at the Brisbane International from January 4-11, facing a strong field including Madison Keys and Amanda Anisimova.
Alcaraz and Sinner will play an exhibition in South Korea on January 10 as a warm-up for the Australian Open. Last year, Alcaraz claimed eight titles, including the French and US Opens, while Sinner retained the ATP Finals crown and defended his Australian Open title.
Novak Djokovic begins what could be his final season at the Adelaide International from January 12, chasing a record 25th major and 11th Australian Open title.
Other top players competing early in the season include Felix Auger-Aliassime, Taylor Fritz, Alex de Minaur, Daniil Medvedev, and Nick Kyrgios.
Sabalenka, after winning her second US Open and titles in Brisbane, Madrid, and Miami, is the favorite for a third Australian Open crown, with challengers including Swiatek, Gauff, and Rybakina. — AFP
