Jordan Smith claims A$1 million prize at Australian Open
Jordan Smith, a 29-year-old amateur tennis player from Sydney, has claimed an extraordinary A$1 million prize after triumphing at the One Point Slam, a pre-tournament event at the Australian Open on Wednesday, reports BritPanorama.
Competing on Rod Laver Arena in front of an audience of 10,000, Smith achieved the remarkable feat by defeating world number two Jannik Sinner. The innovative knockout competition allows amateurs to face off against professionals in single-point matches.
Reflecting on his victory, Smith stated, “It was a dream come true. Growing up in Sydney, I always dreamed of being a tennis player, of even just getting to a Grand Slam, and I never imagined this could happen.” His journey included overcoming notable competitors such as women’s world number four Amanda Anisimova and Spanish player Pedro Martinez, which he described as challenging yet thrilling.
Smith’s strategy in the competition was simple yet effective: “Basically, be a brick wall. I’ll just make a lot of balls and hopefully they miss.” His choice to serve first played a crucial role, leveraging the nerves of his more experienced opponent. “I did win rock, paper, scissors, and I noticed a lot of the top pros get quite nervous when they have to serve first,” he explained, adding that he capitalised on Sinner’s missed serve to seize momentum.
Since his victory, Smith has received an influx of messages from friends and well-wishers. He noted his excitement at sharing space with tennis elites: “Alcaraz was next to me… All of them were really down-to-earth, super cool, and friendly.” His phone has been inundated with messages following the triumph, indicating the extent of his newfound celebrity.
In terms of how he plans to use his substantial winnings, Smith mentioned possible investments or purchasing a house with his girlfriend. Moreover, his success also benefitted his club, with Tennis Australia’s Chief Tennis Officer Tom Larner presenting Castle Hill Tennis Academy with A$50,000 to enhance their facilities and equipment.
Smith had previously finished as runner-up in the amateur section of the event, where Queensland qualifier Alec Reverente secured a new Kia car as his prize. Emphasising his focus during matches, he stated, “I guess everyone expected a pro to take it, but I just focused on one point at a time.”
This unprecedented win serves as a reminder of how the lines between amateurs and professionals can blur on the sports field—unpredictable moments can create new narratives and champions in the sporting world.
