The Australian Open has announced a major revamp of its pre-tournament spectacle, the Million Dollar One Point Slam, a unique knockout competition that pits amateurs against tennis’s top professionals for a A$1 million (£490,000) prize.
World number one and six-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz is confirmed to participate in the event, which features 10 amateur players facing 22 professionals in a high-stakes, single-point showdown at Melbourne Park in January.
The winner of the single point—with serve determined by “rock, paper, scissors”—advances to the next round.
This year’s competition dramatically scales up the inaugural 2025 event, which had a minimal A$60,000 prize and saw little top-tier interest, aside from Andrey Rublev, who was swiftly eliminated.
The 2026 ‘Grand Finale’ will move to the main Rod Laver Arena for a night session, a significant upgrade from the previous venue and time slot.
Amateurs can qualify by winning grassroots tournaments at local clubs across Australia, with one player from every state and territory guaranteed a spot in the finals on Wednesday, 14 January.
Tournament director Craig Tilley confirmed that entries are opening soon, emphasising: “Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, the ultimate winner will walk away with the prize.”
