The Australian Open 2026 has officially set a new benchmark in tennis history by announcing a record total prize money pool of AUD 111.5 million. This marks a 16% increase from 2025, the biggest year-on-year rise the tournament has ever seen.
With this jump, the Australian Open now becomes the second-richest Grand Slam in terms of prize money, behind only the US Open. The increase benefits every round, from qualifying players to Grand Slam champions, reinforcing Tennis Australia’s focus on long-term player sustainability.
Tournament chief Craig Tiley confirmed that the increase was designed to support players across all levels, especially those competing in early rounds and qualifiers.
Australian Open 2026 Prize Money Deatils
- Total prize pool: AUD 111.5 million (all-time high)
- Increase from 2025: 16% overall
- Men’s & Women’s Singles champions: AUD 4.15 million each
- First-round singles losers: AUD 150,000
- Prize money rise across all rounds: Between 10% and 19%
This is the largest prize money increase in Australian Open history, with singles champions receiving the biggest jump.
Men’s & Women’s Singles Prize Money (Per Player – AUD)
| Round | Prize Money (AUD) | Increase vs 2025 | Approx USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Champion | 4,150,000 | +19% | ~$2.79M |
| Runner-up | 2,150,000 | +13% | ~$1.45M |
| Semifinal | 1,250,000 | +14% | ~$841K |
| Quarterfinal | 750,000 | +13% | ~$504K |
| Round of 16 | 480,000 | +14% | ~$323K |
| Round of 32 | 327,750 | +13% | ~$220K |
| Round of 64 | 225,000 | +13% | ~$151K |
| Round of 128 | 150,000 | +14% | ~$101K |
Qualifying Singles Prize Money (AUD – Per Player)
| Qualifying Round | Prize Money | Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Q3 | 83,500 | +16% |
| Q2 | 57,000 | +16% |
| Q1 | 40,500 | +16% |
The strong rise in qualifying prize money ensures better financial support for lower-ranked and emerging players.
Also see: Top 10 Hottest Female Tennis Players in 2026
Men’s & Women’s Doubles Prize Money (Per Team – AUD)
| Round | Prize Money |
|---|---|
| Champions | 900,000 |
| Runner-up | 485,000 |
| Semifinal | 275,000 |
| Quarterfinal | 158,000 |
| Round of 16 | 92,000 |
| Round of 32 | 64,000 |
| Round of 64 | 44,000 |
Doubles prize money also saw a solid increase, continuing the push to reward team formats properly.
Mixed Doubles Prize Money (Per Team – AUD)
| Round | Prize Money |
|---|---|
| Champions | 175,000–180,000 |
| Runner-up | 97,750+ |
| Earlier rounds | Increased from 2025 |
(Exact figures may vary slightly based on final Tennis Australia confirmation.)
Why This Prize Money Increase Matters
The 2026 prize money structure sends a clear message:
- Players at every level benefit, not just champions
- Early-round losses still provide meaningful financial security
- Tennis remains one of the best-paying global sports
- The Australian Open continues to lead innovation among Grand Slams
With matches played from January 18 to February 1, 2026, this historic prize pool adds even more significance to every match at Melbourne Park.
The Australian Open 2026 prize money sets a new standard for Grand Slam tennis. A record AUD 111.5 million purse, higher payouts across all rounds, and a major focus on player welfare make this edition one of the most financially important tournaments in tennis history.
