Not just record prize money: US Open gives players thousands of dollars in Uber and Amex benefits
Tennis NewsMonday, 31 August 2026 at 00:30
The US Open has already made history with a record $108 million compensation package, but players arriving at Flushing Meadows have been handed another financial boost that has little to do with their results on court. The tournament is giving competitors $2,500 in Uber credit and a further $1,000 on an American Express card.
The additional benefits were announced through a video shared on the US Open’s social media accounts, featuring ATP and WTA players receiving the unexpected package. The initiative applies beyond the biggest names in the draws, with players competing in qualifying also included.
The move comes after the USTA confirmed a 20% increase in total prize money for 2026, taking the tournament’s purse from $90 million to $108 million. The singles champions will each receive a record $5.5 million, while players eliminated in the first round of the singles main draw will take home $140,000.
But the US Open's approach this year goes beyond simply increasing prize checks. Alongside the record purse, the tournament has introduced a $2 million Player Support Program and established a Grand Slam Player Advisory Council, responding to broader demands from players for greater compensation and support.
US Open adds $3,500 package for players
The extra benefits were confirmed by USTA CEO Craig Tiley, who has repeatedly stressed that player compensation should extend beyond prize money. The package gives each eligible competitor $2,500 to spend through Uber and $1,000 in American Express credit.
“We’ve also added additional player gift of an Uber voucher of $2,500 and an American Express card with $1,000 credit on it. So we’re giving them additional things on top of the total compensation of 108,” Tiley said.
That means a player arriving in New York receives an additional $3,500 in benefits before winning a single match. For lower-ranked competitors, who face significant travel, accommodation, food and transportation costs throughout the season, the practical value of the package can be particularly significant.
The USTA has also committed $2 million to its new Player Support Program, split equally between men and women, as part of a wider effort to address player welfare. The fund is being developed with input from the newly created Grand Slam Player Council.
A welcome surprise!
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 28, 2026
Players received a $2,500 Uber credit and $1,000 American Express gift card upon arrival to New York to help cover costs as they pursue a Grand Slam title. pic.twitter.com/AjCvWGwFLK
Tiley doubles down on player-focused approach
The initiatives arrive during an important period for player compensation in tennis. Top ATP and WTA players have pushed the Grand Slams to increase their share of tournament revenues, improve welfare provisions and give athletes more influence over decisions affecting the sport.
The US Open's response has been to significantly increase its overall compensation while adding benefits outside the traditional prize-money structure. The $108 million package represents a 44% increase compared with the $75 million offered in 2024.
Tiley, who became USTA CEO after his long tenure at Tennis Australia, framed the approach as part of a broader philosophy rather than a one-off gesture.
“You will see the US Open continue to be a very player-friendly event," Tiley said. "I think our desire to increase the amount that we put on the table was driven really within the organisation, the sense that we need to give the players a fair share."
With the record prize money already setting a new benchmark for Grand Slam tennis, the additional $3,500 package gives the 2026 US Open another distinction: players are being offered meaningful benefits before they even step onto the court.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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