Australian Open’s ‘One Point Slam’ Thrills Fans, Surpasses Other Grand Slams

The Australian Open’s ‘One Point Slam’ took place on Wednesday night in Melbourne, showcasing an exhilarating tennis spectacle that thrilled fans and players alike. The event featured an amateur athlete defeating a four-time Grand Slam champion, highlighting a unique format where men faced women on a standard court.

Key Highlights from the ‘One Point Slam’

Amateur player Jordan Smith, hailing from the Castle Hill tennis academy in Sydney, triumphed over Joanna Garland. Garland, ranked world No. 117, previously claimed victory against Alexander Zverev, the world No. 3. This year, the prize for winning was a remarkable $1 million AUD ($668,300 USD), a significant increase from last year’s $40,093 USD.

Tournament Format and Participation

• A total of 48 players participated in the event.
• Professional players engaged amateurs, who won through regional state championships across Australia.
• Matches began with a game of rock, paper, scissors to determine who served.

Top players like Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Coco Gauff also entered, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. Interestingly, Frances Tiafoe and World No. 2 Sinner fell early in the competition, facing elimination at the initial serve. Meanwhile, Garland overwhelmed several top names, including Nick Kyrgios and Donna Vekić, surprising audiences with her remarkable skills.

Player Reactions and Future Prospects

Jordan Smith, who progressed to the final after defeating world No. 71 Pedro Martinez, expressed disbelief at his victory over Garland. The event concluded with Garland missing a crucial shot, which handed Smith the title and cash prize. He plans to invest the funds, potentially in property with his girlfriend.

The ‘One Point Slam’ experienced a surge in popularity, drawing attention from other Grand Slam events, especially given its creative format and audience engagement. The event allowed participants to engage in a friendly yet competitive environment, as players shared laughs and playful banter.

Record Attendance and Economic Impact

The tournament coincided with record qualifying attendances at the Australian Open, which saw a revenue increase of 17 percent from the previous year for the January to September 2025 period. The U.S. Open’s mixed doubles format, which has faced criticism, provided a comparative backdrop, illustrating the innovative approach that distinguishes the ‘One Point Slam.’

• Record 78,000 fans attended events over two days.
• Arthur Ashe Stadium was sold out, with 20,000 additional fans watching matches on Louis Armstrong Stadium.

The success of the ‘One Point Slam’ signifies a shift towards more engaging and dynamic formats in professional tennis. Other majors may look to adopt similar concepts to enhance fan experiences and boost participation.