A unique and high-stakes tennis spectacle is set to captivate fans ahead of the Australian Open, offering amateur players a once-in-a-lifetime shot at glory and a life-changing cash prize. The One Point Slam returns with a simple but electrifying premise: win just one crucial point to advance, with the ultimate victor claiming a staggering £500,000 (approximately $1 million).
Star-Studded Lineup and Unconventional Format
The event will feature a glittering roster of tennis's elite, including reigning champions and fan favourites. Confirmed professionals set to take part are Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Coco Gauff, and Iga Swiatek. They will be joined by ten amateur competitors, creating a fascinating dynamic between the sport's best and everyday enthusiasts.
The format is designed for maximum tension and fairness. Each match is decided by a single, sudden-death point. To determine who serves first, officials will use a coin toss or a game of 'rock, paper, scissors', adding an element of chance and informality. In a key rule to level the playing field, amateur participants are granted two serves to start the point, while the professionals are allowed only one serve.
From Obscure Launch to Primetime Showcase
The tournament's rise has been meteoric. Following a relatively low-key debut last year, it has now secured a prestigious primetime slot on Rod Laver Arena, the iconic centre court at Melbourne Park, immediately before the Australian Open kicks off. This elevated positioning signals its growing appeal as a major entertainment event.
The potential for dramatic, unpredictable outcomes was spectacularly proven during its inaugural run. Last year, amateur player Paul ‘Fitzy’ Fitzgerald achieved a legendary feat, defeating three professional opponents in succession. His remarkable run demonstrated that the format genuinely gives amateurs a fighting chance and ensures no result is a foregone conclusion.
What This Means for Tennis Fans
The One Point Slam represents a thrilling innovation in how tennis is presented. It condenses the sport's high-pressure moments into a rapid-fire, accessible package that is perfect for television. For viewers, it offers the compelling narrative of the underdog story, where a complete unknown can step onto the same court as a Grand Slam champion and emerge victorious in a matter of seconds.
For the players, both professional and amateur, it provides a unique test of nerve and skill under the brightest lights. The event is scheduled for Tuesday 13 January 2026, promising to deliver an unforgettable night of entertainment and sporting drama that challenges the conventional boundaries of the game.
