What Coco Gauff would change about the One Point Slam going forward

The One Point Slam at the Australian Open seems to have struck a chord with both players and fans, and there’s already some talk about how it might evolve for next year.

With A$ 1 million on the line, it was a unique chance for anyone to win big – no matter their background. Amateurs faced off against pros in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena crowd, with every point carrying real weight.

In an incredible twist, it was an amateur who came out on top. Jordan Smith beat Amanda Anisimova before getting past Jannik Sinner in the final, walking away with the huge payday.

Even Roger Federer was paying attention. The Swiss legend said he loved how nervous the players looked, finding the whole thing ‘hilarious’.

World number three Coco Gauff also enjoyed it but had one idea she thought could make things even better next time around.

Coco Gauff shares her thoughts on the One Point Slam

Gauff gave her thoughts on the event during her press duties: “It was really cool. No, I have to redeem myself. I will play [next year], for sure.”

The American exited in round two, losing to Donna Vekic after double-faulting.

“I didn’t expect to win,” said the 20-year-old. “I was telling everyone that that was not going to happen. People were like, What are you going to do with the money? It’s not going to me.

“I did say I wanted an amateur to win. I think the best-case scenario happened. We had an amateur in the finals versus Joanna, who became like a celebrity overnight, which I think was really cool.

“I thought that was cool because you got to hear stories that you would never hear. My only… not complaint, but like I watched the qualifying rounds, because my hitting partner was doing it.

“I think people had to make six rounds to make it Rod Laver. I think that was a little bit a lot. There were a couple cool stories that were from the qualifying rounds that I was there that I wish some people got to see on Rod Laver.

“There was a guy promoting paraplegic tennis. No one saw him. There was another older lady who had the best outfit.

Gauff prepares for 2026 Australian Open opener against Kamilla Rakhimova

Gauff is now preparing for the start of her main draw campaign, where she’ll be facing a strong field in Melbourne.

The American has landed in a tough quarter that includes Marketa Vondrousova, Mirra Andreeva and Emma Navarro.

Her opening match is against world number 55 Kamilla Rakhimova, someone Gauff has played once before on tour.

Their only previous meeting came at the 2025 China Open, where Gauff won comfortably in straight sets, 6-4, 6-0.