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Roger Vaughan

Easy money: Tiley says a punter could win 1 Point Slam

World No.1 Carlos Alcaraz is confirmed for the Australian Open's 1 Point Slam. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

Craig Tiley is talking it up as one of the easiest ways to pocket $1 million.

As well as being able to play tennis, a solid "rock paper scissors" strategy will also be essential.

The Australian Open tournament director is calling on local clubs to be involved in the 1 Point Slam, which will feature the winner-takes-all $1 million prize.

Craig Tiley
Craig Tiley is spruiking the 1 Point Slam as one of the easiest ways to make $1 million. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

On January 14, 24 amateurs and 24 professionals - world No.1 Carlos Alcaraz is confirmed - will play in the mini-tournament at Rod Laver Arena.

The winner of each point progresses to the next round, with five rounds determining who wins.

The Open trialled the concept this year, but it will be the first time $1 million is on offer.

"This is one of the easiest ways to win $1 million, because anything can happen and you're in control of it," Tiley said.

"It's not random selection. You're in control of getting the ball over the net.

"I promise you, when you watch the pro players ... their level comes down pretty quickly, because there's a lot of pressure."

Strategy will be crucial, with "rock paper scissors" deciding who chooses whether they serve or receive.

Tenni stock.
Strategy will play a big part of the 1 Point Slam, which offers the chance to become a millionaire. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

"We've watched pro players get so nervous on the serve, they choose to serve underhand - you never know," Tiley said.

"Get in early, get the first few balls back. When you get a short ball, get into the net, you give yourself the best chance.

"There's a good chance that it's not a pro who actually wins. This is the best opportunity for an underdog to become a global champion."

Tiley was at the Port Melbourne Tennis Club on Thursday morning to spruik the 1 Point Slam. After a series of local competitions, one winner from each state will progress to the final.

He said a packed centre court would be "rooting for the Aussie underdog".

Celebrity wildcard entries will also feature in the competition.

The Australian Open is offering a $50,000 prize to local clubs that put on qualifying events, with entries open from Friday.

"I usually hit 'rock' first, but is that giving away my strategy? I might change it up on the day," said amateur Zahra Arthur, who played in this year's 1 Point Slam.

"I'm going to hit a big serve straight into them, they have no chance. I'm hoping they don't hit the ball back."

Despite the obvious risks to their reputations, Tiley said professionals are keen to be part of the event ahead of the Australian Open.

"It's interesting pressure practice, leading into the Australian Open - when you get to that 48 draw, which is the final draw, you have to win five matches," he said.

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