Full Breakdown
Jordan Smith Triumphs in the One Point Slam at the Australian Open
1/14/2026, 11:47:24 PM
Overview of the One Point Slam
The One Point Slam, an innovative exhibition event held at the Australian Open, saw amateur player Jordan Smith achieve a remarkable victory, claiming a prize of 1 million Australian dollars (approximately $670,000) on January 14, 2026. This unique tournament featured a knockout format where each match was decided by a single point, allowing amateurs to compete against top-ranked professionals, including world number two Jannik Sinner and world number one Carlos Alcaraz.
Key Matches and Path to Victory
Jordan Smith, a 29-year-old tennis coach from Sydney, emerged as the champion after a series of stunning upsets. He began his journey by defeating AFL star Bailey Smith and continued to shock the tennis world by eliminating Sinner in the third round. Sinner, who had only one serve, netted it, handing Smith the victory without needing to hit the ball. Smith then advanced to the final after defeating women's world number four Amanda Anisimova.
In the final, Smith faced Joanna Garland, the world number 117 from Taiwan, who had previously knocked out several high-profile players, including Alexander Zverev and Nick Kyrgios. The final match concluded with Garland sending a two-handed backhand wide, securing Smith's victory.
Event Format and Participation
The One Point Slam featured 48 players, including 24 professionals and 24 amateurs, with the latter group comprising state champions and wildcards. Matches were determined by a game of rock, paper, scissors to decide who served, with amateurs allowed two serves while professionals had only one. This format created an atmosphere of unpredictability, leading to several surprising eliminations of top players.
Official Statements & Responses
Jordan Smith expressed his disbelief at winning, stating, "I can't even speak, it's unbelievable. Coming into tonight, I was just happy to win one point. I was so nervous, but I enjoyed being out here." He indicated plans to invest his winnings or buy a house in Sydney, humorously noting, "Or maybe half a house… prices in Sydney are insane."
Tennis Australia’s chief, Craig Tiley, highlighted the event's grassroots appeal, describing it as "tennis at its most exciting -- one point, one shot at glory."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement, Smith's amateur status drew some criticism. Observers noted that he previously held a career-high ATP ranking of 1,141 and had participated in professional tournaments, leading some to question whether he should be classified as an amateur.
What's Next
The Australian Open main draw is set to begin on January 18, 2026, following the success of the One Point Slam. The event has generated significant interest, and its innovative format may influence future tournaments.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I can't even speak, it's unbelievable.” — Jordan Smith, Champion
- “This event is the ultimate grassroots-to-Grand Slam experience,” — Craig Tiley, Tennis Australia Chief
- “I kind of called it, so that happens!” — Jannik Sinner, after losing to Smith
Jordan Smith's unexpected triumph in the One Point Slam not only provided a life-changing financial reward but also showcased the thrilling unpredictability of tennis, blending amateur aspirations with professional stakes.
