US Open singles champions to receive record $5.5m in prize money
The US Open has announced a record total prize pool of $108m for this year’s tournament, with the singles champions set to earn a historic $5.5m each.
Overall compensation for the final major of the calendar year has risen by 20% compared to the previous edition.
Play is scheduled to begin in New York next week following Thursday’s financial announcements by the United States Tennis Association (USTA).
Competitors who simply make the 128-player singles main draw will take home $140,000, which represents the largest baseline payout in the sport’s history.
Lucrative payouts across all rounds
A quarter-final appearance guarantees players $780,000, while reaching the semi-finals secures a guaranteed $1.45m.
The runner-up in both the men’s and women’s singles events will collect a substantial consolation prize of $2.8m.
Last year, defending champions Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz each received $5m from a total player compensation pot of $90m.
In the doubles competitions, the victorious men’s, women’s, and mixed teams will split $1m, whilst wheelchair singles champions will earn $104,000.
New initiatives for player welfare
Alongside the immediate prize money increases, organisers are establishing a dedicated player support programme backed by an initial $2m commitment.
These funds will be divided equally between the men’s and women’s tours to provide ongoing benefits and complement existing pension structures.
This initiative was designed alongside the newly created Grand Slam Player Council, following demands from professionals for a larger share of tournament revenues.
“A significant first step in a multi-year investment in athletes as the US Open continues to be the best economic opportunity for players and the most valuable platform in tennis for players, fans and partners.”
USTA chief executive Craig Tiley stated that this financial commitment to competitors at all levels represents a vital progression for the sport.