Compared to last year, the total prize money at the final Grand Slam of the season has increased by 20%. The men's and women's singles champions will each receive a record $5 million, a 39% increase. This year, for the first time, the singles competition will begin on Sunday, 24/8, and will extend from 14 to 15 days. The mixed doubles competition will take place over two days, 19-20/8, with the winning pair receiving $1 million.

Prize money has also increased significantly for singles players, from the runner-up ($2.5 million, up 39%) to those reaching the fourth round ($400,000, up 23%). For years, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) has aimed to redistribute the prize money to benefit all participating players.

Defending champion Sinner received .6 million in prize money at the 2024 US Open. Photo: USTA

Defending champion Sinner received $3.6 million in prize money at the 2024 US Open. Photo: USTA

With this level of spending, the US Open has far surpassed other Grand Slams. Wimbledon's total prize pool is $72.7 million, while Roland Garros and the Australian Open offer $65.4 million and $62.9 million, respectively.

In addition to expanding the prize pool, the US Open organizers are also providing support and reducing various other costs for participating players. Players receive $1,000 for travel expenses and two rooms at the official tournament hotel or $600 per day if they choose to stay elsewhere. They also receive free stringing for up to five racquets per round. According to the USTA, the total cost of player support is $5 million.

Despite these significant increases, the prize money remains modest compared to the US Open's revenue, which reached nearly $560 million in 2024. Top players are fighting for a greater share. They have united behind Larry Scott, the WTA's administrator, to discuss with Grand Slam organizers a fairer distribution of revenue for the players.

According to the New York Times, the four Grand Slam organizers allocate approximately 15% to 20% of their earnings to prize money. This percentage is considerably lower than in other professional team sports in the US, where athletes receive nearly 50% of event revenue.

Compiled by Vy Anh