Charleston makes history as first WTA 500 to match ATP 500 Prize Money: “Next year’s champion will receive equal compensation”
WTA
The Charleston Open has made history by becoming the first WTA 500 event to offer equal prize money to its ATP 500 counterpart. While Grand Slam tournaments have already adopted equal pay for men and women, that parity is still being phased in across the rest of the Tour.
Currently, ATP 250 and ATP 500 tournaments offer more prize money than their all-women equivalents. The WTA has set a 2033 deadline for all tournaments to achieve prize money equality, but Charleston will be the first to reach this target after voluntarily increasing its prize pool for 2026.
It was recently confirmed that the Charleston Open’s partnership with Credit One Bank will be extended for another five years. The clay-court tournament has become one of the most prominent events on the WTA 500 calendar. As part of the announcement, Credit One Bank’s SVP of Brand and Advertising, Amber Greenwalt, shared the positive news for the WTA Tour.
“Credit One is proud to reaffirm our sponsorship of this premier all-women’s tennis tournament through 2031,” she stated. “Just as the Credit One Charleston Open has built a legacy of empowerment since 1973, Credit One is also dedicated to fostering momentum and celebrating achievements by empowering people in their financial journeys.”
A JPEG MOMENT 📸@JPegula battles back from 1-5 down in the second set to defeat Kenin 6-3, 7-5!#CharlestonOpen pic.twitter.com/gvthxV5ovN
— wta (@WTA) April 6, 2025
“In alignment with this vision, we are thrilled to confirm that next year’s champion of the Charleston Open will receive compensation equal to that of their male counterparts in comparable tournaments. This commitment reflects our dedication to advancing equity both on and off the court, as we continue to champion progress and opportunity for all.”
The tournament owner, Ben Navarro – father of World No. 10 Emma Navarro – celebrated the deal with Credit One that will allow Charleston to pioneer equal prize money at this level of tournament. “At the Credit One Charleston Open, we believe in fostering an environment where all athletes are recognized and rewarded for their talent and dedication,” he said.
“Providing equal prize money in 2026 is a significant step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable future for tennis. We are proud to take this action as part of our ongoing commitment to support fairness in sports and lead by example for the next generation.”
This year’s total prize money was $1,064,510, with an initial increase to around $1.15 million expected by 2026. However, the new agreement will boost the prize pool to nearly $2 million—matching ATP 500 levels. The official prize amount will be revealed in the weeks leading up to the 2026 edition.
We’re proud to announce that Credit One Bank has extended its title sponsorship through 2031.
— Credit One Charleston Open (@CharlestonOpen) April 6, 2025
Starting in 2026, they’re committing to equal prize money for players, leveling the playing field for the remarkable athletes who play our event.
🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/EA1yV0k8Ca
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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