The Australian Open is set to kick off its 2026 event with its biggest-ever Opening Week, transforming the tournament into a three-week festival of world-class tennis, entertainment and a unique, high-stakes event: the Million Dollar 1 Point Slam.
The tournament is extending its festival atmosphere right from day one of the Qualifying week, January 12-17, making the entire Melbourne Park precinct accessible to fans for the first time.
“The entire site will be open from day one,” said Tournament Director Craig Tiley, “when kids can come free of charge.” With affordable family tickets, live music and player practice sessions open on Rod Laver Arena, the Opening Week should be a popular family-friendly experience.
Can you win one point against Alcaraz?
Headlining the new offerings is the Million Dollar 1 Point Slam. This knockout tournament is pure drama, where matches are decided by a single point, with the ultimate winner (amateur or professional) taking home a prize of A$1 million.
Carlos Alcaraz has been confirmed to headline the professional player lineup, which will feature 22 pros competing against 10 amateur finalists who qualify through various grassroots competitions across Australia.
How the 1 Point Slam Works:
- Each match is decided by a single point.
- Players determine who serves or receives using “rock, paper, scissors.”
- The winner of the point progresses; the loser is eliminated.
Qualifying rounds will take place during Opening Week, with the final stages played on the iconic Rod Laver Arena.
Expanded Entertainment and Fan Experience
These are some of the updates for the pre-AO experience fans can expect in 2026:
- Whole Precinct Access: The entire Melbourne Park site will be open from day one of Opening Week (Monday, January 12), with tickets for adults starting from just $10 and kids entering free on day one.
- New Elevated Viewing: The Highline is a new two-storey structure offering fans elevated views of the action, additional shade and a better connection to the Courtside Bar.
- AO LIVE: The entertainment festival will run for all 21 days, featuring nightly live music on Grand Slam Oval during Opening Week. International headliners are also scheduled for five nights at AO LIVE Presents in John Cain Arena.
- Food and Beverage: New vendors, including the first-ever Australian pop-up of Shake Shack.
- Player Interaction: Fans can watch top players practice up-close during Open Practice sessions on Rod Laver Arena. Additionally, 5,000 Hot Shots Tennis racquets will be given away to kids during Opening Week.
256 players will be battling it out in the Australian Open qualifying tournament, all trying for a spot in the main draw, which officially begins on Sunday, January 18th.
We're going up (literally) ?
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) October 7, 2025
?? Two-storey structures = elevated views
? More space to sip and snack
? A reimagined stage at TOPCOURT
And much more… https://t.co/CIxIx5sB7N
