Australian Open 2026 sets a new record for prize money

Accordingly, the 2026 Australian Open, held from January 18 to February 1 at Melbourne Park, not only continues to affirm its status as one of the four most prestigious tournaments in tennis but also clearly demonstrates a long-term investment strategy to ensure sustainable careers for players at all levels.

In the men’s and women’s singles events, the champion of each category will receive AUD 4.15 million (about USD 2.8 million), a 19% increase compared to the 2025 prize money. This is the highest payout ever awarded to champions at the Australian Open.

Not only top stars benefit; this year’s prize money distribution system especially focuses on players in the early rounds and qualifiers. Organizers stated that prize money for qualifying rounds has increased by 16%, while all players participating in the main draw for singles and doubles are guaranteed a minimum 10% increase.

Notably, players eliminated in the first round will still receive AUD 150,000, a 14% rise from last year. Those who exit in the third qualifying round will earn AUD 83,500, an increase considered “significant” amid rising competition and travel costs.

Commenting on the decision to raise prize money substantially, Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia, emphasized this as a clear commitment from the organizers to support the sustainable development of professional tennis.

Tiley stated: “The 16% increase in prize money shows we are serious about supporting tennis at every level. From raising qualifying round prize money by 55% since 2023 to improving player benefits, we want to ensure professional tennis is a sustainable career path for all players.”

According to Tennis Australia, the prize money increase is part of a AUD 135 million investment package for the “Summer of Tennis” series, aimed at strengthening the long-term development foundation of Australian tennis while enhancing the commercial appeal and competitive quality of the tournament.

Compared to the other Grand Slams, the Australian Open currently ranks behind the US Open — which had the largest total prize money last year at USD 90 million. Meanwhile, Wimbledon (UK) allocates GBP 53.5 million (about USD 72.5 million) and Roland Garros (France) offers EUR 56.35 million (approximately USD 66.1 million).

The continuous prize money increases at the Australian Open in recent years not only reflect the strong recovery of elite sports post-pandemic but also highlight a trend among major tournaments to increasingly focus on protecting players’ rights, especially those outside the top elite ranks.