> At a Glance
> – The 2026 Australian Open will offer a record 111.5 million AUD ($75 million USD), up 16% from 2025
> – Singles champions earn 4.15 million AUD ($2.8 million), a 19% raise
> – Qualifying money also rises 16%, extending gains to every level
> – Why it matters: Tennis Australia says the boost keeps pro tennis viable for emerging and elite players alike
Tennis Australia has opened its wallet wider than ever for the season’s first Grand Slam, unveiling a purse that exceeds last year’s by 16% and setting a new benchmark for the 124-year-old event.
Record Pool
The tournament, scheduled for 18 January-1 February 2026 in Melbourne, will distribute 111.5 million AUD-about $75 million USD-after increasing from 96.5 million AUD in 2025. Qualifying money climbs 16%, while every main-draw singles and doubles competitor is guaranteed at least a 10% raise.
Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley framed the move as career support:
> “From boosting qualifying prize money by 55% since 2023 to enhancing player benefits, we’re ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors.”
Singles Payday
The men’s and women’s champions will each collect 4.15 million AUD ($2.8 million USD), up 19%. The full breakdown for every round is below.
| Finish | Prize (AUD) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Champion | $4,150,000 | $2,792,950 |
| Runner-up | $2,150,000 | $1,446,950 |
| Semifinalist | $1,250,000 | $841,250 |
| Quarterfinalist | $750,000 | $504,750 |
| Fourth round | $480,000 | $323,040 |
| Third round | $327,750 | $220,576 |
| Second round | $225,000 | $151,425 |
| First round | $150,000 | $100,950 |
Key Takeaways
- Total purse hits an all-time high of 111.5 million AUD
- Singles champions pocket 4.15 million AUD, up 19%
- Qualifying money rises 16%, extending support to lower-ranked players
With the increases, Tennis Australia aims to deepen the sport’s talent pool and give fans more stories to follow when play begins on 18 January.
