Australian Open 2026 Winners to Get $2.79 Million After Prize Money Increase
Tournament organisers announce a record 16% rise in total prize money, making Australian Open 2026 the richest edition in the event’s history.
Record Prize Money Announced for Australian Open 2026
The Australian Open 2026 has announced a major increase in prize money, with men’s and women’s singles champions set to receive $2.79 million each. This follows a 16 per cent rise in the tournament’s overall prize pool, making it the biggest payout in the event’s history.
Organisers revealed that the total prize money for the tournament will now stand at AUS $111.5 million, up from AUS $96.5 million last year.
Big Pay Boost for Winners and Finalists
Under the new prize structure:
- Singles champions (men and women) will earn AUS $4.15 million ($2.79 million).
- Runners-up will receive AUS $2.15 million.
- Semi-finalists will take home AUS $1.25 million each.
The increase applies equally to men’s and women’s events, maintaining pay parity at the Grand Slam tournament.
Higher Earnings for Early-Round Players
The prize money rise is not limited to the top finishers. Players competing in early rounds and qualification stages will also see higher payouts.
- First-round singles players will receive increased prize money compared to previous editions.
- Qualifying round participants will earn about 16 per cent more than last year.
- Doubles and mixed doubles players will also benefit from the revised structure.
Organisers said the goal is to support players at all levels, especially those who rely heavily on prize money to cover travel and training costs.
Organisers Stress Player Support
Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said the decision reflects the organisation’s commitment to helping professional players manage rising expenses and remain competitive on the tour.
He added that the increase forms part of a broader investment plan for the “Summer of Tennis” in Australia, aimed at strengthening the sport and improving player experience.
Australian Open 2026 Dates and Venue
The Australian Open 2026 will be held from January 18 to February 1 at Melbourne Park. It is the first Grand Slam of the tennis calendar and is expected to feature the world’s top players.
With the new prize structure, the tournament will become one of the most lucrative sporting events of the year.
