The Australian Open, the first major tournament of the tennis season, is once again making headlines—not just for the matches, but for the staggering prize money on offer. In an exciting announcement by Tennis Australia on January 6, it was revealed that the 2026 Australian Open will feature a record-breaking total prize fund of $74.9 million. This significant increase of 16% from the previous year underscores tennis’s growing commercial appeal and the amplified support for tennis players at every level.
The champions of the men’s and women’s singles competitions will each take home about $2.79 million. This is a notable jump from the $2.35 million received by the winners in 2025, highlighting the tournament’s commitment to rewarding its top athletes. Notably, this rise in winnings isn’t limited to the champions alone; increases are also making their way down the ranks to players who may not advance far into the tournament. This means alleviating the financial pressures faced by players who don’t make it past the early rounds.
For example, first-round losers in both the men’s and women’s singles will earn more than $100,000, a substantial figure that reflects a more equitable distribution of funds throughout the draw. This is particularly exciting for lower-ranked players, as it provides not just financial support but also recognition of their efforts to compete at such high levels.
As the defending champions prepare for the challenges ahead, anticipation builds around figures like Jannik Sinner, who clinched the men’s title in 2025, and American Madison Keys, who achieved a stunning victory over world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the women’s draw. Their performances have set a high standard for the upcoming tournament.
2026 Australian Open Prize Money Breakdown
The prize money distribution showcases a significant commitment to rewarding talent across the board. Here’s a detailed look at some of the financial incentives awaiting players:
- Winners of Men’s and Women’s Singles: $2.79 million
- Runners-up: Approximately $1.55 million
- Semi-finalists: Roughly $850,000
- Quarterfinalists: $505,383
- Round 4 Competitors: About $346,000
- Round 3 Players: Incentives around $240,000
- Round 2 Participants: Slightly over $150,000
- Round 1 Competitors: More than $100,000
Australian Open 2026: Main Draw Schedule
Ahead of the excitement in January, here’s the official schedule for the 2026 Australian Open, ensuring fans can mark their calendars for this much-anticipated event:
- Monday, January 12: Qualifying Rounds Commence
- Sunday, January 18 to Sunday, January 25: Rounds 1-4 of the Main Draw
- Monday, January 26 to Tuesday, January 27: Quarterfinal Matches
- Wednesday, January 28: Women’s Semifinals
- Thursday, January 29: Men’s Semifinals
- Friday, January 30: Women’s Finals
- Saturday, February 1: Men’s Finals
This progressive increase in prize money aligns with the tournament’s goal of promoting inclusivity and support across the sport. As the 2026 Australian Open draws closer, enthusiasts eagerly await not just thrilling matches but also the stories that unfold as players vie for one of tennis’s most prestigious titles.