By Richard Pagliaro Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Photo credit: Rolex
Melbourne Park is offering a pot of gold at the end of the AO rainbow this month.
The 2026 Australian Open will pay out a record prize money of A$111.5 million, or approximately US$75 million, the tournament announced today.
This is the largest purse in tournament history, a 16% increase from the 2025 Australian Open’s $96.5 million purse.
The main draw of the 2026 Australian Open is scheduled to be held from January 18 to February 1.
Jannik Sinner Twice defending AO men’s champion. Madison Keys Defending AO women’s champion.
AO bonus highlights include:
*All singles and doubles players will receive a 10% bonus.
*Eligible players will receive 16% more prize money than in 2025.
*The AO singles champion will receive a check of US$4.15 million, which is approximately US$2.79 million, an increase of 19% from 2025.
*AO singles finalists will earn $2.15 million, or approximately $1.45 million, a 13% increase from last year.
“The 16 per cent growth demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis at all levels,” Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said.
“From increasing qualifying prize money by 55% from 2023 to improving player welfare, we are ensuring that professional tennis is sustainable for all participants.”
2026 Australian Open Prize Money Breakdown
Men’s and Women’s Singles – All figures in Australian dollars
winner: US$4.15 million (+19%)
runner up: US$2.15 million (+13%)
Semi-finalists: US$1.25 million (+14%)
Quarterfinalists: US$750,000 (+13%)
Round 4: US$480,000 (+14%)
Round 3: $327.75K (+13%)
Second round: $225,000 (+13%)
First round: US$150,000 (+14%)
Each qualifying round:
– Q3: $83,500 (+16%)
– Q2: $57,000 (+16%)
– Q1: $40,500 (+16%)
