The Australian Open has once again confirmed the return of its distinctive “1-Point Slam” for next year’s edition. The event gives amateurs a shot at $1 million and the chance to face world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz and other top professionals. Although the concept was a fan favorite earlier this year, its return has been met with skepticism from tennis legend Martina Navratilova.
How Did Martina Navratilova React to the Australian Open’s Move Featuring Carlos Alcaraz?
The competition will bring together 22 tour professionals and 10 amateurs from across Australia, with the final set for Rod Laver Arena. Entries for the clubs across the countries are opening shortly, and qualifying rounds will take place before the tournament’s Opening Week in January 2026.
Qualifiers will play during Opening Week to earn a shot at the pros on January 14. Each match kicks off with ‘rock, paper, scissors’ to determine who serves or receives. Whoever wins the point advances in the tournament.
Another intriguing aspect of the tournament is its five knockout rounds, with the final stages set to be played under the lights at night. While the other specifics are still under wraps, the prize, which stood at $60,000 earlier this year, has now skyrocketed to a staggering A$1 million.
The eventual winner, whether a professional or an amateur, will take home the massive sum.
The Australian Open announced the update on their X handle on Tuesday: “1 shot. 1 opportunity. $1 million on the line. Million Dollar 1 Point Slam, coming to AO26,” they captioned the post.
However, 18-time singles Grand Slam champion Navratilova seemed skeptical about the tournament’s update, seemingly questioning whether the standard of tennis alone wasn’t sufficient to engage fans.
“Is the tennis itself not good enough???” She questioned.
Navratilova is known for her blunt presence on social media, never shying away from sharing her opinions. While her remarks hinted at concern over gimmicks, the tournament forms part of the organizers’ broader plan for a 21-day celebration of sport, music, and entertainment.
Last year, World No. 14 Andrey Rublev led the field as the top-ranked professional but was ousted in the quarter-finals after a netted serve. It has to be seen how deep World No. 1 Alcaraz will go in this year’s edition. Omar Jasika, who has a career high rank of 177, eventually ended up winning the event by ousting Priscilla Hon in a 35-shot rally.