Sydney: Tennis Australia has announced a record-breaking prize pool for the upcoming Australian Open, marking the largest payout in the tournament’s history.
The total prize money for the 2026 edition of the Grand Slam has been set at Aus$111.5 million, roughly equivalent to INR 675 crore, representing a 16 per cent increase from last year. Alongside the overall rise, players competing in the qualifying rounds will also benefit from significantly higher payouts.
Champions in both the men’s and women’s singles events will take home Aus$4.15 million each, a 19 per cent jump from the Aus$3.5 million awarded to winners last year. The runner-up in each singles draw will earn Aus$2.15 million, while semi-finalists will receive Aus$1.25 million for their performances.
Financial gains extend well beyond the final rounds. Players eliminated in the first round of the main draw will receive Aus$150,000, while those exiting in the opening round of qualifying will still earn Aus$40,500. Under the new prize structure, all singles and doubles players are guaranteed a minimum increase of 10 per cent compared to the previous year.
The largest prize pool in Australian Open history 🤩https://t.co/E1jc7T9Iyk
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 6, 2026
Tennis Australia has also sharply increased support away from the court, with travel assistance rising by 67 per cent and expanded welfare initiatives aimed at easing the financial strain on players lower down the rankings.
Tournament director Craig Tiley said the revised structure reflects a long-term commitment to the health of the sport. He noted that prize money for qualifying has risen by 55 per cent since 2023 and stressed that broader player support is key to strengthening competition and improving the fan experience.
The Australian Open will begin at Melbourne Park on January 18. Jannik Sinner will return to defend his men’s singles title, while Madison Keys will aim to retain the women’s crown.
