The Australian Open has announced a landmark increase in its prize money for the 2026 tournament, setting a new financial benchmark in its history. The total purse will swell by 16 percent to reach an unprecedented £55.4 million.
Record Rewards for Champions and Competitors
This significant boost means the winners of the men's and women's singles titles will each receive a whopping £2.1 million. This represents a substantial jump from the £1.7 million claimed by reigning champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys in 2025.
The financial uplift extends throughout the entire draw, ensuring players at all stages benefit. First-round participants who exit the tournament will now take home £74,500, a 14 percent increase from the previous year. The most dramatic rise, however, is reserved for the qualifying competition, which sees a 16 percent hike. Players reaching the third round of qualifying will earn £41,500.
Investing in the Sport's Future
Craig Tiley, the Chief Executive of Tennis Australia, framed the increase as a core part of the organisation's commitment to the professional game. "This 16 percent increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at every level," Tiley stated.
He highlighted a 55 percent surge in qualifying prize money since 2023 as evidence of a strategy to make the sport more sustainable. "From boosting qualifying prize money to enhancing player benefits, we're ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors," he added.
This prize money announcement is a key component of Tennis Australia's broader £100 million investment across the 'Summer of Tennis' events. Tiley believes this funding "strengthens tennis's foundation, ensuring the sport's long-term health and commercial growth."
Grand Slam Financial Landscape
Despite this record-setting increase for the Australian Open, it remains the second-largest prize fund among the four Grand Slam tournaments. In 2025, the US Open led the way with a total purse of £66.4 million. Wimbledon's fund stood at £53.5 million, while the French Open offered £48.8 million.
The 2026 Australian Open is scheduled to run from 18 January to 1 February at its iconic home, Melbourne Park. This financial commitment sets a powerful tone for the first major of the season, underlining the event's growing prestige and its dedication to the athletes who compete.
