MELBOURNE: The Australian Open has announced a record prize fund of A$111.5 million ($74.88 million) for this year’s tournament, marking a 16% increase and the largest purse in the event’s history.
The men’s and women’s singles champions will each receive A$4.15 million, up from the A$3.5 million claimed last year by Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys. Tennis Australia said the rise reflects a broader effort to strengthen financial support across all levels of the professional game.
“This 16% increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at every level,” Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said. “From boosting qualifying prize money by 55% since 2023 to enhancing player benefits, we’re ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors.”
Early-round players will also benefit, with first-round losers set to earn A$150,000, a 14% increase from 2025. The qualifying rounds will see the biggest jump, rising by 16%, while players exiting in the third round of qualifying will receive A$83,500.
Among the Grand Slams last year, the U.S. Open offered the largest prize fund at $90 million, followed by Wimbledon with 53.5 million pounds ($72.49 million) and the French Open with 56.35 million euros ($66.12 million).
