Six Kings Slam steps into the future of tennis with holographic opening ceremony

First: a five-minute cinematic experience with the best of the best

Second: a prize pool promising more in three days than two-week-long tournaments

Third: a three-dimensional light show powered by what can only be assumed to be revolutionary technology

Tennis has officially stepped into the future.

As players waited for their match to begin at this week's Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, lights in the stadium are dimmed in preparation for a two-minute, light-powered opening ceremony.

The holographic show includes everything from a countdown (which starts, naturally, at six), to fire-like lines tracing the dimensions of the court, to a larger-than life serve, and even larger-than-life competitors.

Not only were the players announced overhead as they walked onto the court, but they were also represented in holographic, "King" versions of themselves, as we had seen in the exhibition’s trailer.

While the holograms set the stage for the competition ahead, the light shows continued throughout the match. During changeovers, for example, there were two light-powered players hitting a tennis ball of light back and forth over the net.

Two kings remain in the battle of the kingdoms, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Their championship match follows Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal, who are playing for third place.

Could there be a holographic trophy presentation along with the crowning of a king?