The Australian Open is once again upon us to kick off 2026 in spectacular fashion (with the prize money to back it up).
In line with the ongoing trend, this year's AO 2026 prize pool has received yet another tidy bump, now totalling a healthy $111.5 million - for reference, this represents a 16% improvement from the 2025 prize pool of $96.5 million.
Singles champions will be more than happy to take home $4.15 million (+19%), with comparable increases to be pocketed by everyone from first-round qualifiers and fourth-round contenders, right through to quarterfinalists, semifinalists, and runner-ups.
“This 16% increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at every level,” said Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley.
“From boosting qualifying prize money by 55% since 2023 to enhancing player benefits, we’re ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors.”
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The prize money's welcome hike is owed to Tennis Australia’s $135 million investment across the Summer of Tennis, "reinforcing the commitment to support hundreds of professional athletes’ careers."
Tiley continued: “This investment strengthens tennis’s foundation, ensuring the sport’s long-term health and commercial growth. By supporting players at all levels, we’re building deeper talent pools and more compelling storylines for fans.”
Check out the figures below.
Australian Open Prize Money (2026)
The prize pool on offer for players at this year's Australian Open has reached a record high of $111.5 million (an increase of 16% compared to 2025). Since 2016, AO prize money has climbed by an impressive 153% from $44 million.
For comparison, here's what was up for grabs at every other Grand Slam tournament throughout 2025:
- 2025 Roland-Garros Prize Money
US$63 million (AU$93.5 million) - 2025 Wimbledon Prize Money
US$64.5 million (AU$95.8 million) - 2025 US Open Prize Money
US$85 million (AU$126 million)
Australian Open Prize Money Over The Years
| 2021 | $71 million |
| 2022 | $74 million |
| 2023 | $76.5 million |
| 2024 | $86.5 million |
| 2025 | $96.5 million |
| 2026 | $111.5 million |
Single's Prize Money
| Winners | $4.15 million |
| Runners-up | $2.15 million |
| Semi-finalists | $1.25 million |
| Quarter-finalists | $750,000 |
| Fourth round | $480,000 |
| Third round | $327,750 |
| Second round | $225,000 |
| First round | $150,000 |
| Third round qualifying | $83,500 |
| Second round qualifying | $57,000 |
| First round qualifying | $40,500 |
Double's Prize Money (Per Team)
| Winners | TBA |
| Runners-up | TBA |
| Semi-finalists | TBA |
| Quarter-finalists | TBA |
| Third round | TBA |
| Second round | TBA |
| First round | TBA |
Mixed Double's Prize Money (Per Team)
| Winners | TBA |
| Runners-up | TBA |
| Semi-finalists | TBA |
| Quarter-finalists | TBA |
| Second round | TBA |
| First round | TBA |
