The bank account of teenage star Emerson Jones is set to swell by at least $150,000 with Australian Open prize money hitting a new high of $111.5 million.
The 17-year-old Queenslander has been granted a wildcard into the main draw at Melbourne Park, so is guaranteed for a big pay day even if she bows out in the first round.
Prize money for the Open has been boosted by an average of 16 per cent, although the men's and women's singles champions will enjoy a 19 per cent increase to take home a hefty cheque of $4.15 million, which is up from $3.5 million last year.
Qualifiers, too, have seen a 16 per cent increase in pay, with a first-up loser collecting $40,500, while the tournament will also provide greater travel and welfare assistance to players who are financially struggling.
Tennis Australia and tournament boss Craig Tiley said the increase across the board showed the commitment to players at different levels of success and stages of their career.
"This 16 per cent increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at every level," Tiley said in a statement.
"From boosting qualifying prize money by 55 per cent since 2023 to enhancing player benefits, we're ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors."
He said the prize pool was part of a broader TA commitment to funding other events throughout the Australian summer, with a total of $135 million being "invested" through tournaments like the United Cup as well as events in Brisbane, Hobart and Adelaide.
Australian Open qualifying begins next Monday with play in the main draw getting underway on Sunday, January 18.
Prize money breakdown
- Winner: $4.15M (+19 per cent)
- Runner-up: $2.15M (+13)
- Semifinalists: $1.25M (+14)
- Quarterfinalists: $750K (+13)
- Fourth round: $480K (+14)
- Third round: $327.75K (+13)
- Second round: $225K (+13)
- First Round: $150K (+14)
- Qualifying per round:
- Q1: $40.5K (+16)
Q2: $57K (+16)
Q3: $83.5K (+16)
