Top tennis stars Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Coco Gauff, and Naomi Osaka are set to compete in the Australian Open’s 1 Point Slam exhibition tournament. The high-stakes event features matches consisting of a single deciding point, pitting professionals against amateurs, wild cards, and celebrities for a $1 million prize.
Organizers announced that the tournament final will take place at Rod Laver Arena on January 13, ahead of the grand slam tournament running from January 17 to 31. The unique knockout format allows grassroots players and celebrities—such as Taiwanese pop star Jay Chou—to share the court with the biggest names in the sport. Tom Larner of Tennis Australia noted that the event creates an opportunity for community tennis players to step into the spotlight alongside top-tier professionals.
Amateur Jordan Smith Wins Million Dollar Prize
Every match in the tournament lasts for just one single point, where the winner immediately advances to the next round. The high-profile exhibition first ran in the lead-up to the Australian Open with 24 professionals and 24 amateurs and celebrities holding wild cards. Amateur player Jordan Smith shocked the field during the inaugural event by defeating Jannik Sinner and ultimately claiming the grand prize. Smith secured the victory on the third stroke of the final when Joanna Garland hit a two-handed backhand wide, turning the Sydney amateur into a millionaire.
Tennis Clubs Host Qualifying Events for Tournament
Qualifying for the 1 Point Slam is currently underway at tennis clubs across the country. Organizers confirmed that eight participants will earn their spots through championships held in Australian states, while another eight will secure their places via a further two days of qualifying during the opening week of the tournament.
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