2017 Australian Open prize money hiked to an historic high of $50 million, up 14% on 2016
The Australian Open has increased prize money to an historic high of $50 million, up 14% on 2016.
Men and women singles winners will each get $3.7m while a first round loser will receive $50,000.
Australian Open Tournament Director CEO Craig Tiley said organisers wanted to ensure players were compensated at both ends of the spectrum.
"We are committed to further improving the pay and conditions on the international tennis tour to ensure every professional tennis player is properly compensated," Craig Tiley said.
"It was especially important for us to increase the compensation for players in the early rounds and qualifying, and this year we have made some real gains. We are constantly reviewing ways to improve the life of every player on tour, not just the top 100. This includes increasing prize money as well as removing as many costs as possible associated with playing our events.
“Our aim is to shift the break-even point for professional players, to ensure that tennis is a viable career option for the best male and female athletes in the world. We are also committed to equal prize money, equal exposure and equal opportunity for men and women.
“In 2017, prize money for all three qualifying rounds has increased an impressive 39%, with $25,000 for players losing in the final round.
“First round prize money is up 30%, there’s a 19% increase in the second round, and losers in the third round will be 20% better off, taking home $130,000.
“Compensation of this magnitude recognises the elite level these athletes have achieved and allows them to invest more in their own careers, which includes funding their own travel, coaches and conditioning expenses.
“We are proud of our record in looking after the players, and will continue the push for increased prize money for professional players.
Australian Open prize money has more than tripled since 2001, when it was $13.9m, with a $10m increase since 2014.
Australian Open Prize Money Fast Facts
- 2017 total prize purse is $50,000,000
- 14% increase in total prize money from 2016
- Australian Open prize money has more than tripled since 2001, when it was $13.9m
- $10m increase in the past two years (since 2014)
- 39% increase in prize money across all rounds of qualifying
- 30% increase in first round prize money – up from $38,500 in 2016 to $50,000 in 2017
- 19% increase in second round prize money – up from $67,000 in 2016 to $80,000 in 2017
- 20% increase in third round prize money – up from $108,000 to $130,000 in 2017
- 14% increase in fourth round prize money – up from $193,000 to $220,000
- 9% increase for quarterfinals, semifinals, runner up and winner
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