According to official news from the Australian Open, this year’s Australian Open prize money has reached a record high, with the total prize money being approximately 111.5 million Australian dollars (about 526 million yuan), an increase of 16% over last year.
According to the official singles prize distribution announced by the Australian Open, the prize money for the men’s and women’s singles champions is 4.15 million Australian dollars (approximately 19.564 million yuan), an increase of 19% from the championship prizes in 2025. Even if they are eliminated in the first round, the contestants will still receive a participation bonus of 150,000 Australian dollars (approximately 707,000 RMB). In addition, all singles and doubles players participating in the season-opening Grand Slam tournament will receive at least a 10% salary increase.
Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said in a statement that the growth demonstrates the tournament’s commitment to supporting not only the sport’s superstars, but also players who may be just starting their tour careers, or who may face financial hardship throughout the season. “This 16% increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting the careers of tennis players at all levels,” said Tiley. “From increasing qualifying prize money by 55% from 2023 to improving player benefits, we are ensuring that professional tennis benefits all participants.”
Although Tennis Australia’s financial statements for 2025 have not been made public, the Australian Financial Review reported that the total revenue of the Australian Open in 2025 was approximately US$697.2 million (approximately RMB 4.873 billion). This figure means that this year’s Australian Open prize money accounts for about 16% of the tournament organizer’s revenue.
The 2026 Australian Open qualifying rounds will begin on January 12, and the main draw will be held from January 18 to February 1.
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