<p>Reigning back-to-back Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner kicks off his quest for an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/mens-australian-open/men-s-australian-open-winner-2026-8896398">AO hat-trick</a> with this potentially tricky first-round encounter against French qualifier Hugo Gaston.</p> <p>The world number two enters Melbourne Park as the overwhelming favourite, but Gaston's unpredictable style could provide an intriguing test in the opening round.</p> <p>Sinner's preparation for his title defence has been methodical, with the Italian arriving in Melbourne having dominated the ATP circuit throughout the preceding months.</p> <p>His recent form suggests he's operating at peak performance levels, continuing the exceptional standard that saw him claim multiple Grand Slam titles in recent seasons.</p> <p>Gaston, meanwhile, earned his spot in the main draw through qualifying rounds, demonstrating the fighting spirit that has characterised his career.</p> <p>The Frenchman's unconventional playing style, featuring heavy slice backhands and crafty court positioning, has troubled higher-ranked opponents in the past, making him a dangerous floater in any draw.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Jannik Sinner vs Hugo Gaston Betting Tips</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Match Betting</h3> <p>The head-to-head betting market tells the story of this encounter quite clearly, with Sinner priced at $1.002 compared to Gaston's lengthy $51.00.</p> <p>These odds reflect not just the gulf in ranking between the two players, but also Sinner's remarkable recent Grand Slam record.</p> <p>The Italian's statistics paint a picture of dominance that's difficult to argue against. Having won 24 consecutive Grand Slam main draw matches against older opponents, Sinner has established himself as virtually unbeatable in major tournaments when facing more experienced campaigners like the 26-year-old Gaston.</p> <p>Sinner's path to this encounter has been relatively straightforward compared to previous seasons, allowing him to maintain peak physical condition entering the tournament. Gaston's qualifying campaign, whilst impressive, will have taken its toll both physically and mentally ahead of this monumental challenge.</p> <p>The quality gap between these competitors appears insurmountable on current form, with Sinner simply operating on a different level to most of his contemporaries.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/mens-australian-open/hugo-gaston-v-jannik-sinner-10049053">Jannik Sinner.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Set Betting</h3> <p>Examining the set betting market reveals expectations of a comprehensive victory for the defending champion.</p> <p>Sinner is priced at just $1.16 to win in straight sets, suggesting an anticipation of little resistance from the French qualifier.</p> <p>Gaston's best chance of claiming a set appears limited, with his unconventional style potentially catching Sinner off-guard early in proceedings. However, the Italian's adaptability and superior fitness levels should see him adjust quickly to any tactical surprises his opponent might spring.</p> <p>The defending champion's recent first-set dominance, having won the opening frame in his last 10 ATP matches, suggests he's unlikely to be caught cold against Gaston's crafty approach.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/mens-australian-open/hugo-gaston-v-jannik-sinner-10049053">Sinner 3-0.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Total Match Games</h3> <p>The total match games line has been set at 25.5, with the over priced at $1.78 and under at $1.95. This relatively low total aligns with expectations of a straight-sets victory for Sinner, requiring the match to stay under 26 games to hit the under.</p> <p>Given our prediction of a 3-0 scoreline and Sinner's current dominance levels, this total appears generous.</p> <p>The Italian's ability to close out sets efficiently will most likely see this match conclude well below the current over/under projection.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/mens-australian-open/hugo-gaston-v-jannik-sinner-10049053">Under 25.5 total match games</a>.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>*Odds are subject to change</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Where to Watch the Jannik Sinner vs Hugo Gaston Australian Open Match?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>For those in Australia, you can watch the 2026 Australian Open First Round match between Jannik Sinner and Hugo Gaston on the Nine Network.</p> <p>Available on both free-to-air on Channel 9, and 9Gem, you can also watch the match online on 9Now.</p> <p>Alternatively, you can stream the First Round match on streaming service Stan Sport.</p>