Australian Open chiefs announce record prize money as likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner eye glory

The overall prize pool has grown by 16 per cent from 2025, reflecting Tennis Australia's continued investment in the sport's flagship event.

Action at Melbourne Park gets underway on January 18, with the women's final scheduled for Saturday January 31 and the men's showpiece following on Sunday February 1.

Craig Tiley, the tournament director and Tennis Australia chief executive, outlined the reasoning behind the financial boost.

"This 16 per cent increase demonstrates our commitment to supporting tennis careers at every level," Tiley said.

"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 added: "This investment strengthens tennis's foundation, ensuring the sport's long-term health and commercial growth.

"By supporting players at all levels, we're building deeper talent pools and more compelling storylines for fans."

Defending champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys will return to Melbourne Park looking to repeat their 2025 triumphs.

The Italian secured back-to-back titles last year after defeating Alexander Zverev in the final, while the American claimed her maiden Grand Slam crown following consecutive victories over Swiatek and Sabalenka.

Both champions pocketed £1.7m for their efforts 12 months ago.

Should either player successfully defend their crown this month, they would take home approximately £300,000 more than their previous winnings.

However, the pair face formidable opposition from a field packed with elite talent hungry for silverware.

Carlos Alcaraz, currently the world No 1, arrives in Melbourne with ambitions of completing a career Grand Slam, having won titles at Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the US Open.

Novak Djokovic, a ten-time champion at the Australian Open, is seeking his first major trophy in over two years.

On the women's side, Iga Swiatek shares Alcaraz's goal of securing a career Grand Slam, with the Australian Open the only major title missing from her collection.

Aryna Sabalenka, who lifted the trophy in both 2023 and 2024 before Keys ended her reign last year, will be determined to reclaim the crown.