The United States Tennis Association (USTA) announced on Thursday that the 2026 US Open will offer a record $75 million in total prize money, a 10% increase from the 2025 tournament. The men’s and women’s singles champions will each receive $3.6 million, up from $3.4 million in 2025, while first-round losers will earn $100,000, a 12% rise from $89,000 the previous year.
Record-Breaking Payouts Across All Rounds
The USTA said the prize money pool is the largest in the tournament’s history, continuing a multi-year trend of double-digit percentage increases. In 2025, total prize money was $68 million, meaning the 2026 figure represents a $7 million jump. The association attributed the increase to strong revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, and broadcast rights. According to the USTA, the prize money for qualifying rounds has also been boosted, with players in the first round of qualifying earning $25,000, up from $22,000 in 2025.
Impact on Players and the Sport
“This year’s prize money distribution reflects our commitment to supporting players at every stage of the tournament,” said USTA chairman Patrick Galbraith in a statement. “We believe that fair compensation is essential for the health of the sport, and we are proud to offer record amounts to both top contenders and those just starting their journey at the US Open.” The increase is part of a broader effort by the four Grand Slam tournaments to close the gap between prize money and the rising costs of professional tennis. The US Open now trails only the Australian Open in total prize money among the four majors, with the 2026 Australian Open offering $80 million. The French Open and Wimbledon have yet to announce their 2026 prize money figures.
Economic and Competitive Implications
The USTA expects the higher prize money to attract a stronger field and increase competition, as more players can afford to travel and train. The association also noted that the increase supports its goal of making tennis more accessible, with additional funding allocated to player development programs. The 2026 US Open is scheduled to take place from August 24 to September 6 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York. Ticket sales for the tournament will begin in early 2026.
