This is how the historic prize money of the Australian Open 2026 will be distributed

Diego Jiménez Rubio | 6 Jan 2026 | 08.50

Record prize money for the Australian Open 2026. Photo: gettyimages

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Never before in history had the Grand Slam held in Melbourne distributed as much money as it will do in this edition. The Australian Open 2026 will set a record in terms of prize money, increasing the total amount of money distributed last year by up to 16%. It is worth paying attention to the main economic changes made by Craig Tiley and company.

The golden goose. That's what tennis stands for in Grand Slam tournaments, which have been making a lot of money for too long and are beginning to offer players something more in line with what they deserve. The profits of the top four tournaments in the world continue to rise, and both circuits insist that the deserved prominence be given to players in terms of prize money distribution. The Australian Open 2026 has taken a step forward by establishing several guidelines.

Keys to understanding the increase in prize money at the Australian Open 2026

The total amount rises to 111.5$ AUD (74.7 US dollars) from 96.5 in the previous year, representing a 16% increase.

A 16% increase in money to be distributed in the qualifying rounds, aiming for the democratization of tennis and improving conditions for players outside the top 100.

All rounds of the tournament, both in singles and doubles, see a minimum 10% increase.

Winners and finalists experience record-level increases in tournament history, with a 19% increase for both individual champions, addressing the major issue that had been unresolved in recent years when prizes for the top players had been frozen.

There are significant improvements in terms of travel assistance and support for players and their teams, with increases of up to 67%.