It was all in good fun though, as high spirits and energy filled the crowd and players partaking in the latest tennis wave.
The extreme pressure tournament is exactly how it sounds – no games or sets for victory, just one singular point to advance.
15 to love, and you move on.
Registrations for the tournament were capped after the first day of sign-ups released and even in sweltering evening heat before Wednesday night’s cool change, a strong crowd had turned out at Mooroopna to witness the action.
Ultimately there could only be one person left standing, with Bendigo’s Vijay claiming the thirst-quenching prize of a year’s worth of beer, going faultless in the do or die tournament.
“I felt very thrilled and very excited – having all the people watching was incredible,” Vijay said.
“It’s very similar to the rest of Country Week, everyone gets around you.
“I met a lot of people. It’s a great atmosphere.
“I’ll be back next year, I can’t wait.”
Tennis Victoria chief executive officer Kim Kachel reiterated the success of the one point tournament.
“The 1 Point POP Slam captured exactly what Country Week is about – competitive spirit, great atmosphere and bringing people together,” Kachel said.
“There was incredible energy courtside, plenty of laughs and ultimately one deserving champion.”
Country Week continued on Thursday with semi-final match-ups, before the deciders are played on Friday.
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Image 1 of 10
Bendigo’s Sid Vijay releases relief and ecstasy after winning the one point slam.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Bendigo’s Sid Vijay won the one point slam.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Altona’s Alex Milanese watches as the ball flies by to end his run.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Zach Kangelaris fends with the racquet.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Altona’s Mark Separovic hustles to the right to keep his chances alive.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Altona’s Mark Separovic awaits a return.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Shepparton Lawn’s Robbie Mifka watches the serve.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Bathurst’s Guy Fletcher prepares to make a desperate swing at the ball.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Shepparton Lawn’s Robbie Mifka puts all his force into the forehand.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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Altona’s Aleks Jankovic positions himself for a match-winner.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit