The Australian Open 2026, the first Grand Slam of the tennis season, is set to begin in mid-January with a record-breaking prize money pool, reflecting a major boost in financial rewards for players at all levels. Organisers have announced that total prize money for the tournament will reach A$111.5 million (about US$75 million), marking a 16% increase over last year, the largest prize pool in the event’s history.
Record prize money and historic rise
With the new total of A$111.5 million, the Australian Open continues to grow in commercial strength and global appeal. The previous year’s pool of A$96.5 million has been surpassed by a significant margin, demonstrating how the sport’s foremost hard-court major is increasing its support for tennis professionals across the board.
Winners and top finishers to earn significantly more
Both the men’s and women’s singles champions will receive A$4.15 million each, a 19% increase from the 2025 payout. Runners-up will also earn more, with prize money set at A$2.15 million, showing an uplift of about 13% compared to last year. Semifinalists, quarterfinalists and players advancing through various rounds also benefit from increased payouts, with amounts rising steadily across all stages of competition.
Qualifiers and lower-ranked players benefit too
Unlike past years when the bulk of prize money centred on later rounds, this year’s increases extend well down the draw. Prize money for players in the qualifying rounds has been raised by 16%, and even those exiting in the earliest qualifying round will receive a meaningful payout. All singles and doubles players are guaranteed at least a 10% increase from last season, reflecting Tennis Australia’s emphasis on financial sustainability for athletes at every level.
Boosting player support and sustainability
Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said the prize money rise was part of a broader commitment to support tennis careers at all stages. The investment includes improvements in travel assistance, welfare initiatives and player benefits measures aimed at making professional tennis more sustainable and rewarding beyond just the elite few.
Tournament schedule and global context
The 2026 Australian Open will run for three weeks from 12 January to 1 February at Melbourne Park, featuring the world’s top stars in men’s and women’s tennis. With defending champions, high-ranked favourites and emerging talents all set to compete, the elevated prize pool adds further stakes to what is already one of the most eagerly anticipated seasons on the ATP and WTA tours.
This financial milestone not only highlights the Australian Open’s status among Grand Slams but also underscores the growing commercial strength of professional tennis, offering athletes stronger incentives and fans more excitement as the sport heads into 2026.