Record-Breaking $65M Prizes Await Winners at 50th Anniversary U.S. Open
The U.S. Open tennis tournament is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary by offering an unprecedented prize pool of $65 million, according to the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA). This staggering amount reflects an increase in both the total prize money and player compensation, with the figure boosted by higher expense coverage.
In comparison, last year’s total payout was approximately $60 million, highlighting the significant growth occurring within the sport. The main draw for singles will commence on August 28 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, culminating in the women’s and men’s finals on September 10 and 11, respectively.
This year, the U.S. Open will continue its tradition of providing equal prize money for both men and women, marking a milestone 50 years since becoming the first event to adopt such a policy. The champions of the men’s and women’s singles will each be awarded $3 million, an increase of approximately 15% from the previous year but slightly below the pre-pandemic prize fund in 2019, which stood at $3.9 million.
While the winners receive substantial sums, players exiting in earlier rounds will also benefit from increased compensation. For instance, those eliminated in the first round of singles will now receive $81,500, a rise from $80,000 in 2022 and a substantial increase from the $58,000 granted in 2019.
In the doubles category, champions will earn $700,000 per team, surpassing last year’s prize of $688,000. The USTA has also made efforts to enhance the overall player experience by providing additional expense coverage. Qualifying and main-draw participants in singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and wheelchair events will now receive $1,000 travel vouchers, along with the provision of a second free room in an official tournament hotel for all players. Alternatively, players may choose a stipend of $600 per day to assist with other housing expenses—a substantial increase from the previous $300 per day. The USTA has also increased meal allowances and introduced racket stringing services.
When subtracting these additional expenses from the overall prize pool, the total compensation based on performance at the U.S. Open stands at approximately $60 million. This figure represents the highest amount offered at any Grand Slam tournament throughout the year, with Wimbledon providing about $56.5 million, the French Open about $54 million, and the Australian Open about $53 million, considering currency exchange rates at the time of the events.
The U.S. Open’s commitment to providing equal prize money and the continued investment in player compensation demonstrates the tournament’s dedication to promoting fairness and growth in tennis. With the 50th anniversary celebrations on the horizon, players and fans alike eagerly anticipate the thrilling matches and the record-breaking prizes that await the victors in this year’s historic tournament.
