2026 AO Pickleball Slam

The 2026 AO Pickleball Slam delivered three days of world‑class pickleball at Melbourne Park, with Team Hardware claiming the championship title after a dominant run through the tournament.

Held from 30 January to 1 February, the second edition of the Slam transformed ANZ Arena into a packed, high‑energy hub of fast-paced competition. International and Australian athletes battled it out for more than $100,000 in prize money, showcasing the rapid growth and global appeal of the sport.

Harrison Brown (AUS), Andie Dikosavljevic (AUS), Phuc Huynh (VIE) and Nicola Schoeman (AUS) lifted the trophy after consistent, high-quality performances across singles and doubles match‑ups.

Team Hardware faced Team Hosier, represented by:

• Ryler DeHeart (USA)
• Sofia Sewing (USA)
• Emelia Schmidt (AUS)
• Zac Grabovic (AUS), stepping in for Kyle Stoker (AUS) following injury

The final delivered an exciting mix of singles and doubles contests, ending in a nail-biting AOPS Showdown. In the deciding tie between Nicola Schoeman (Hardware) and Zac Grabovic (Hosier), Nicola ultimately secured the Slam championship for Team Hardware.

Finals day also featured the crowd pleasing Pickleball Celebrity Smash on Court 16.

A lively line-up, including Marty Fox, Joey Scandizzo, Peter Rayias, Emma Shanahan, Ben Cox, Jacqui Felgate, Zac Nunns, Shelby Bates, and AO Bluezone duo Elle Ray and James Tzanoudakis, who brought additional energy and entertainment to the precinct.

Tennis Australia’s Head of Game Expansion, Callum Beale, said the Slam continues to play a key role in elevating pickleball’s profile.

“The AO Pickleball Slam showcased some of the world’s leading pickleball talent at Melbourne Park, competing on an iconic stage during AO finals weekend. At the same time, we are building momentum beyond the professional ranks by supporting clubs, coaches and communities to try pickleball, encouraging more Aussies to pick up a racquet.”