“Offering equal prize money is about respecting the players": Charleston sets precedent by doubling WTA 500 prize money to equal ATP levels

The Charleston Open is setting a new benchmark for standalone WTA 500 events by significantly increasing its player compensation for 2026. The total $2.5 million package – $2.3 million in prize money plus $200,000 for player benefits programs – not only doubles the amount offered in 2025 but also narrows the gap with comparable ATP 500 tournaments.

While ATP 500 tournaments such as the Dallas Open offer $2,833,335 and the Rio Open $2,396,115, most WTA 500 events still operate near the minimum required by their category.

Few weeks ago, for example, the Brisbane International delivered $1,691,602, while Adelaide International and Abu Dhabi offered only the WTA 500 minimum of $1,206,446. Charleston’s decision to exceed the WTA 500 minimum by more than $1.2 million in prize money alone shows that women’s tournaments can take the lead in closing the historical gap in financial compensation, providing players incentives and support comparable to their male peers.

The tournament, North America’s largest women’s-only professional tennis event, will feature a singles draw of 48 players, a qualifying draw of 24, and a doubles draw of 16. Over 90,000 spectators traditionally attend the nine-day event at Daniel Island, which will once again host a top-tier field including Amanda Anisimova, Jessica Pegula, Madison Keys, Emma Navarro, and Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic.

Beyond prize money, the additional $200,000 will go toward the Women’s Tennis Benefits Association, supporting health insurance, pensions, college tuition, and other programs aimed at ensuring long-term athlete welfare.

Charleston has a long history of innovation in women’s tennis. In 1973, it became the first tournament to offer $100,000 in prize money and to broadcast live on network television, awarding inaugural champion Rosie Casals $30,000 – the largest payout to a woman that year. More recently, Charleston has been named WTA 500 Tournament of the Year four times in a row and became the first WTA clay event to introduce Electronic Line Calling Live in 2025.

Ben Navarro, tournament owner and father of world No. 18 Emma Navarro, stressed the broader significance of the investment: “Women’s tennis is delivering at a very high level right now, from the quality of competition to fan engagement, and this investment reflects that. Offering equal prize money is about respecting the players and the work they put in, aligning the tournament with the value of the game.”

Players have widely recognized Charleston’s leadership role. Jessica Pegula, 2025 champion and WTA Players’ Council representative, said, “Seeing a tournament like Charleston commit to equal prize money matters. It shows that the work we put in and the level we compete at are being recognized.”

Madison Keys, the 2019 champion, added, “The Charleston Open offering equal prize money is something we’re incredibly proud of. It represents real progress for women’s tennis and shows how far the sport continues to grow.”

Local talent Emma Navarro also highlighted the tournament’s impact: “Growing up in Charleston, this event has always meant so much to me. Seeing it take a historic step forward with equal prize money is a meaningful moment for our sport. I’m incredibly proud that my hometown tournament is setting the standard.”

The 2004 champion Venus Williams reflected, “This is a huge moment for the legacy of our sport, sending a powerful message to players, fans, and the future of tennis,” said the 7-time Grand Slma champion. “It shows real progress and a belief in the value of women’s sport.”

Charleston’s historic commitment illustrates the growing economic strength of women’s tennis and sets a benchmark for future WTA events. By exceeding the minimum WTA 500 purse, the tournament demonstrates a tangible step toward parity with ATP 500 events, showing that women’s tournaments can match their male counterparts not only in prestige but in financial recognition. The 2026 edition will take place at Credit One Stadium from March 28 to April 5.