How close Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner were to winning $1 million at the One Point Slam

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Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have already lost matches on Rod Laver Arena this year…

Choosing to compete in the Australian Open’s $1 million ‘One Point Slam’, Alcaraz and Sinner were hot favorites for the big prize.

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Neither player left Rod Laver Arena $1 million richer, though, as amateur Jordan Smith shocked the world.

But how close did the world number one and two come to winning the title?

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner failed to reach the quarterfinals

Given a BYE into round two, Sinner met Spain’s Pablo Carreno Busta.

A competitive, yet tentative rally, was eventually won by Sinner, who advanced to the last 16.

“You cannot imagine my heartbeat right now, it’s around 200 [bpm], but I survived until now,” he said.

“There are so many great, great players; you have much less control.

“I was just happy not to serve. The problem is going to be when I serve, so let’s see.”

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Also receiving a BYE into the second round, Alcaraz took on the Argentinian coach Andres Schneiter in his opening match.

Electing to receive, Alcaraz was subject to an impressive serve and volley attempt from the 49-year-old.

Unfortunately for Schneiter, his volley failed to get over the net, as Alcaraz secured his spot in the third round.

“Oh my god, I’m relieved,” said Alcaraz.

“I should pass the first round at least. Oh my god.

“I think in this format, with just one point, everyone is dangerous, everyone is really good, so I’m just going to see who is next.”

Returning for his next match, Sinner’s worst nightmare came true, as he was forced to serve against the impressive amateur, Smith.

Missing his serve, Sinner was knocked out of the competition.

“I kind of called it, that’s how it happens!” he said.

“I’m happy you guys have one more Australian still here, enjoy it, thanks for having me, enjoy the night, thank you.”

Faring slightly better than his rival, Alcaraz’s serve landed in, but he soon found himself in a tough battle with WTA star Maria Sakkari.

It was Alcaraz who blinked first, hitting a forehand into the net, as he too failed to reach the quarterfinals.

“The drop shot is my shot! I don’t know what happened, to be honest,” he said.

“Never disappoints me, not even in the toughest moments, but today it didn’t work.”

With Alcaraz and Sinner out of the competition, the draw completely opened up.

It was Smith who emerged victorious, defeating Taiwanese WTA youngster Joanna Garland in the final.

What’s next for Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner?

For Alcaraz, he’ll return to Rod Laver Arena on Thursday evening for an exhibition match with the home favorite Alex de Minaur.

The Spaniard is looking forward to the match, sharing his thoughts after being eliminated from the One Point Slam.

“I’m excited about stepping back on Rod Laver Arena tomorrow,” said Alcaraz.

“Hopefully you are all going to be there as well.”

Playing De Minaur, Alcaraz will be able to test himself against one of the most consistent players in the men’s game.

He will set foot on Rod Laver Arena as the favorite, having won all five of their ATP Tour meetings.

Carlos Alcaraz and Alex de Minaur’s head-to-head record

Then, on Friday, Sinner will play Felix Auger-Aliassime on Rod Laver Arena.

Sinner leads their head-to-head 4-2.

Jannik Sinner and Felix Auger-Aliassime’s head-to-head record

Only time will tell if Sinner can pick up another win over the Canadian star.

Alcaraz will play De Minaur on Thursday, January 15, before Sinner meets Auger-Aliassime on Friday, January 16.