Best of AP — Honorable Mention

Pye delivers comprehensive and engaging coverage of the Australian Open both on and off the court

Naomi Osaka of Japan walks onto Rod Laver Arena for her first round match against Antonia Ruzic of Croatia at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
APTOPIX Australian Open Tennis

As the only AP writer on the ground in Melbourne for the Australian Open, John Pye delivered not just day-to-day match coverage, but a full, engaging picture of the tournament that resonated with audiences far beyond the tennis world.

Pye covered every round with sharp insight and strong storytelling, capturing the drama of the matches while also identifying the moments that lit up social media and shaped public conversation — from Naomi Osaka’s headline-grabbing walk-on outfit to Coco Gauff’s emotional racket smash after her quarterfinal loss.

His game stories stood out for their lively angles, fresh details and sharp headlines, helping readers connect with both the sport and the personalities behind it. Whether profiling a rising star, explaining a pivotal play, or zeroing in on an off-court moment, Pye’s work brought the tournament to life.

Contact us
FOLLOW AP

You are now entering the English version

This page is not available in your selected language. You are now viewing the English version.

Continue