Alcaraz to Face Amateurs in Million Dollar Single-Point Showdown

Amateur players are getting the chance to earn a seven-figure prize when they face elite players - headed by world number one Carlos Alcaraz - in a one-point battle prior to the year's first major

Tournament officials of the year's first Grand Slam have revealed the $1 Million Single-Point Tournament, which will match 10 amateur players against top-ranked players in a elimination competition at Melbourne Park

This Innovative Competition Operates

Participants must play 'the decision-making game' to determine who gets to serve or return, and the competitor securing the point will progress to the next round

The victor of the event will receive £490,000

For comparison, players who reached the penultimate round of the primary tournaments in the 2025 Australian Open won substantial prize money

Past Related Competitions

The American Grand Slam organized a revamped, standalone mixed doubles tournament in the eighth month which prompted top singles players to participate, with the champions receiving $1m

The Australian Open held its debut One Point Slam this year, but the cash prize was A$60,000 and it received minimal attention

One top competitor was the only top-10 player competing, and his campaign concluded when he put the single service opportunity allowed into the mesh in his penultimate round

Tournament Specifics

Organizers have not said exactly how the event will operate, but it is projected to emulate a akin setup to the previous version

The elite players will be allowed to have a single serve and the amateurs two times - as is the usual procedure in standard play

While it is not certain how the bracket will work, there will be multiple elimination stages and the site will be the Rod Laver Arena rather than the secondary venue

The last matches will be held in a night session instead of 1pm local time

Competitor Information

Domestic competitors - or international players who have registered with the national federation - can compete in 'One Point Slam' events at their local tennis clubs

The champions of the local competitions will then go into a selection process, with one amateur player from every geographic division picked to take part in the 'final competition' in a nighttime event on the specified date

There will also be a qualifying draw in December which amateurs, developing professionals, well-known figures and sports personalities can compete in

It begins on Monday, 12 January and the pair of champions will advance to Wednesday's 'grand finale' with the remaining non-professionals and top-ranked athletes

"Regardless of your skill level, the ultimate winner will receive the prize. Entries will begin shortly at clubs throughout the nation"

Tournament officials mentioned there were "additional stars to be unveiled imminently", while the official website said "well-known figures" would be taking part