Australian Open organisers on Tuesday announced a record prize money pool of AUD 111.5 million, the largest in the tournament’s history. The total purse represents a 16 per cent increase from last year’s prize money of AUD 96.5 million.
The winners of the men’s and women’s singles at the season-opening Grand Slam will each receive AUD 2.79 million, a 19 per cent rise from last year’s AUD 2.35 million. The runners-up will earn AUD 2.15 million, while the semi-finalists will take home AUD 1.25 million each.
Prize money for the qualifying rounds has been increased by 16 per cent, and all singles and doubles players will receive a minimum hike of 10 per cent. Players exiting in the first round of the main draw will earn AUD 150,000.
“This 16 per cent increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at every level. From boosting qualifying prize money by 55 per cent since 2023 to enhancing player benefits, we’re ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors,” Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said.
The prize money increase is part of Tennis Australia’s AUD 135 million investment across the Summer of Tennis, reinforcing its commitment to supporting hundreds of professional athletes’ careers.
“This investment strengthens tennis’s foundation, ensuring the sport’s long-term health and commercial growth. By supporting players at all levels, we’re building deeper talent pools and more compelling storylines for fans,” Tiley added.
Three weeks of Grand Slam action will begin at Melbourne Park on January 12, with the official draw scheduled for January 15 at the Grand Slam Oval fan stage. Defending champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys are expected to be present for the unveiling of the singles draws.
Prize money breakdown (men’s and women’s singles):
Winner: AUD 2.79 million (+19%)
Runner-up: AUD 2.15 million (+13%)
Semi-finalists: AUD 1.25 million (+14%)
Quarter-finalists: AUD 750,000 (+13%)
Fourth round: AUD 480,000 (+14%)
Third round: AUD 327,750 (+13%)
Second round: AUD 225,000 (+13%)
First round: AUD 150,000 (+14%)
Qualifying (per round):
Q3: AUD 83,500 (+16%)
Q2: AUD 57,000 (+16%)
Q1: AUD 40,500 (+16%)
(IANS)
