The 2026 Australian Open will feature a Million Dollar One Point Slam which will see amateur players given the chance to compete against professionals. Each “match” will be just one point and players will play “rock, paper, scissors” to see who serves and receives. World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz has been announced as the headline name involved, with celebrities also set to feature in the event.
One swing of the racquet against Carlos Alcaraz could earn an amateur tennis player A$1m (£490,000) at the 2026 Australian Open.
The Grand Slam has announced the launch of the Million Dollar One Point Slam, which will see 10 amateur players face 22 professionals at Melbourne Park in a knockout format.
Each “match” will be just one point and players will play a game of “rock, paper, scissors” to see who serves or receives.
The winner advances to the next round and the champion pockets the £490,000 prize money.
World No.1 Alcaraz will headline the event, which was won this year by Australian professional Omar Jasika, taking the substantially smaller prize money of A$60,000 (£29,400).
“Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, the ultimate winner will walk away with the prize,” said Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley.
“With more big names to be announced soon, you now have a million reasons to pick up a racquet and get ready for January.”
Qualifying for the event will take place across Australia and at the Australian Open the week before the Grand Slam starts on January 18.
The final will be played on Rod Laver Arena and the Australian Open website has said celebrities will feature in the event.
Andrey Rublev was the only top-10 player involved in the 2025 edition of the One Point Slam and was eliminated after serving into the net.
Pros were only allowed one serve while amateurs were given two. It has not been confirmed if the rules will stay the same next time around.
Live coverage of the Australian Open, from January 18 to February 1, will be on TNT Sports and discovery+