Australian Open 2026: Record prizes with A$111.5M and significant increases

Australian Open 2026: Record Prizes for Tennis Players

Players participating in the 2026 Australian Open will compete for a record prize money pool of 111.5 million Australian dollars (74.9 million US dollars), according to Tennis Australia, representing a 16% increase in total prize money. The winners will take home 4.15 million Australian dollars (2.79 million US dollars), a 19% increase from the previous year, when the prize was 3.5 million Australian dollars (2.35 million US dollars). Significant increases are also seen in the early rounds, with a first-round exit guaranteeing a record 150,000 Australian dollars (100,750 US dollars). This ensures that wildcard players have a good income to start their season on the circuit. Ranking players will also experience a salary increase, with an exit in any of the three rounds providing them with an additional 16% compared to last year.

Last year, the total prize money was 96.5 million Australian dollars (64.81 million US dollars). In a statement, Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley stated that this increase demonstrates the tournament’s commitment not only to tennis superstars, but also to those who are just starting their careers or who may face financial difficulties during the season.

This 16% increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at all levels.

Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia

“From the 55% increase in qualifying prize money since 2023 to the improvement of player benefits, we are ensuring that professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors,” added Tiley. He also mentioned that the prize money is part of a broader commitment from Tennis Australia to fund other events during the Australian summer, with a total investment of 135 million Australian dollars (90.7 million US dollars) in the circuit, which includes tournaments such as the United Cup and 250-level events in Brisbane, Hobart and Adelaide.

This investment strengthens the foundations of tennis, ensuring the long-term health and commercial growth of the sport. By supporting players at all levels, we are building deeper talent pools and more engaging stories for fans.

Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia

The qualifying phase of the 2026 Australian Open will begin on Monday, January 12, with the main draw starting on Sunday, January 18, and the final on Sunday, February 1.

2026 Australian Open Prize Money Distribution for Men’s and Women’s Singles (AUD):

• Winner: $4.15M (+19%)
• Runner-up: $2.15M (+13%)
• Semi-finalists: $1.25M (+14%)
• Quarter-finalists: $750K (+13%)
• Fourth round: $480K (+14%)
• Third round: $327.75K (+13%)
• Second round: $225K (+13%)
• First round: $150K (+14%)

Round Ranking:

• Q1: “$40.5K (+16%)”
• Q2: “$57K (+16%)”
• Q3: “$83.5K (+16%)”