Australian Open 2026 Prize Money explained: How much can Sinner, Alcaraz, Sabalenka and Swiatek earn?
ATPTuesday, 06 January 2026 at 13:00
The Australian Open prize money has been confirmed with a huge increase to a $111.5m prize pool up 16% on last year. It takes the Melbourne based Grand Slam past Wimbledon albeit behind the US Open still.
The event takes place between January 18 - February 1, 2026 and will see Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys as defending champions after winning 12 months ago and they will fight for even more this time with Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic also leading the men's side.
On the women's side, Keys will have a fight on her hands against World No.1 and two-time champion Aryna Sabalenka. While Coco Gauff, Iga Swiatek and Amanda Anisimova will also await in one of the closest WTA fields ever.
Prize money explained
The winners of the men's and women's singles will receive $4.15m each, this is up 19% on the $3.5m in 2025. Those who lose in qualifying early enjoy an increase of 16% which means those who exit at the earliest stage still enjoy $40,500. Travel assistance also increases 67% alongside welfare initiatives amid player discontent surrounding Prize Money. This expanded purse follows an explosion in TA's revenue in 2025. Income in the year to September sits at $693m, an increase of $102m.
“This 16% increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at every level,” Tennis Australia (TA) chief executive, Craig Tiley, said.
“From boosting qualifying prize money by 55% since 2023, to enhancing player benefits, we’re ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors.”
As well as the winners, the runners-up seal $2.15m. Semi-finalists claim $1.25m. Quarter-Finalists seal $750k. Fourth round is $480k. While for third round, it is $327.75k. Second round is set for $225k. While first round is $150k.
Australian Open Prize Money Breakdown
| Singles | Receives | Increase |
| Winner | $4.15m | 19% |
| Runner-up | $2.15m | 13% |
| Semifinalist | $1.25m | 14% |
| Quarterfinalist | $750k | 13% |
| Fourth round | $480k | 14% |
| Third round | $327.75k | 13% |
| Second round | $225k | 13% |
| First round | $150k | 14% |
| Qualifying – third round | $83.5k | 16% |
| Qualifying – second round | $57k | 16% |
| Qualifying – first round | $40.5k | 16% |
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