Melbourne,Ā Jan 7: Australian Open prize money has increased by 16% on last year to a record total for the tournament starting January 18.Organisers of the seasonās first tennis major on Tuesday announced their largest prize pool ever in local currency, with the total for 2026 set at 111.5 million Australian dollars (US$75 million). That was up from 96.5 million Australian dollars in 2025.
The womenās and menās singles champions will win 4.15 million Australian dollars ($2.8 million), a 19% increase on last year.
Prize money for the qualifying tournament will increase by 16% and organizers say all main draw singles and doubles players will get a minimum 10% increase.
Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said the increase ādemonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at every level. From boosting qualifying prize money by 55% since 2023 to enhancing player benefits, weāre ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors.