“It’s always the best feeling to get through the first round at a domestic slam and to be the first match to finish and the first Aussie to advance in a major is a really great feeling.”
Australia’s Talia Gibson during her first round match against Anna Blink.Credit: Eddie Jim
This isn’t Gibson’s first rodeo. She also won her first round match at the 2025 Australian Open before losing to Paula Bados in the second round.
But she’s a different player now because she’s more aware of the “damage” she can do on the court.
“Over the last year, I’ve been able to play against more players that are in the top 100, and I think it’s been really cool for me to see how much I’m able to compete with those players,” Gibson said.
“With the game I have, I often find myself in positions, I control the points and give myself a lot of opportunities on the court. It’s very exciting for me and I hope to develop it a lot more.”
Gibson is among a group of emerging Australian talent that includes teenagers Maya Joint and Emerson Jones.
Best Aussie Maya Joint.Credit: Eddie Jim
The Joint shot up the rankings in 2025 to secure a spot at the 2026 Australian Open, and Gibson said it gave her confidence as she set her own goals for the 2026 season.
“It’s been really exciting to see some of the Australian girls really take off over the last year and shoot up the rankings,” Gibson said.
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“I mean [I] definitely try to take some confidence out of it, but at the same time know what I’m capable of and remind myself of the achievements I’ve made over the past year.
“With that in mind, the main goal for me next year would be to try and get into the top 100 for the first time and stay there.
Read more about Australian Open 2026
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