Roland Garros explains why it won’t be bringing in its own One Point Slam event
TL;DR
Roland Garros has announced it will not host its own One Point Slam event, despite the success of the format at the Australian Open. The event featured amateurs competing against top ATP and WTA players for a single point.
Key points
- Roland Garros will not host a One Point Slam event.
- The One Point Slam format was popular at the Australian Open.
- Amateur Jordan Smith won the One Point Slam.
- Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz participated in the event.
Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images
One of the most talked-about moments in tennis this year was the One Point Slam at the Australian Open.
The format put amateur players up against some of the top names from the ATP and WTA Tours, all for a single point.
The event received plenty of positive feedback, with big names like Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz taking part. In the end, it was amateur Jordan Smith who came out on top.
Even though it went down well in Melbourne, fans hoping to see a repeat at Roland Garros will be disappointed, as the tournament won’t be returning for now.
Amelie Mauresmo shares reasoning behind One Point Slam absence from Roland Garros schedule
Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA/AFP via Getty Images
This year’s Roland Garros build-up won’t include the One Point Slam, but there’s still plenty to look forward to as the second Grand Slam of the season gets closer.
Stan Wawrinka and Gael Monfils are set to receive special send-offs from the clay-court major, and supporters will have chances to interact directly with their favourite players.
Speaking before the tournament, Amelie Mauresmo said she didn’t feel the event was a good fit for what Roland Garros represents. “I believe our DNA, our ambitions, are not necessarily to follow what others are doing, for one thing. It’s also not about chasing buzz at all costs,” she said.
“We’re more about authenticity, we’re rooted in our traditions, and we’re definitely looking toward the future as well, toward modernity, innovating in other areas. This is not something that aligns, for us, with the image of Roland-Garros.”
The tournament hasn’t needed much help drawing attention anyway. Last year’s final between Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner was one of tennis’ standout moments of 2023.
The Spaniard pulled off a memorable comeback in a five-set epic against his Italian rival to win his first title on clay. Both players will be back again this year as Alcaraz aims for another title defence while Sinner continues his quest for a maiden French Open crown.
Amelie Mauresmo reveals plans for the 2026 Roland Garros
The ‘Opening Week’ of a Grand Slam these days goes far beyond just qualifying and it’s become a profitable chance for the four biggest tournaments of the year.
This year’s event at the Australian Open broke attendance records as Roger Federer returned to play a doubles match alongside Andre Agassi, Pat Rafter, and Lleyton Hewitt.
Roland Garros is looking to generate similar excitement, and Mauresmo has outlined her goals for the start of this year’s tournament.
“The Opening Week review is extremely positive,” she said. “The initial ambition was to create a three-week event, and we have fully achieved that.
“But we wanted to go further with this week, which has huge potential. The vibe is more open, more accessible, and perhaps Roland-Garros wasn’t expected to deliver in that space. The goal for 2026 is to welcome 20,000 people per day.”
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Q&A
Why won't Roland Garros host a One Point Slam event?
Roland Garros has decided against hosting a One Point Slam event, citing reasons not detailed in the announcement.
What was the One Point Slam event at the Australian Open?
The One Point Slam at the Australian Open featured amateur players competing against top ATP and WTA players for a single point.
Who won the One Point Slam at the Australian Open?
Amateur player Jordan Smith won the One Point Slam at the Australian Open.
Which tennis stars participated in the One Point Slam?
Notable participants in the One Point Slam included Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz.
