The U.S. Open tennis tournament is set to make history this year with a total prize money and player compensation reaching an unprecedented $65 million, according to the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA). This substantial increase is attributed to the rise in expenses covered by the tournament.
Compared to last year's payout of approximately $60 million, this year's edition promises even greater rewards for the players. Singles play will commence on August 28 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, culminating in the women's final on September 10 and the men's final on September 11.
Remarkably, 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Open being the first event in the sport to offer equal prize money for both men and women. In line with this milestone, both singles champions will receive an impressive $3 million each. Although this marks a 15% increase from last year's winnings of $2.6 million, it falls short of the pre-pandemic prize of $3.9 million awarded to each victor in 2019.
Participants who are eliminated in the earlier rounds also stand to gain increased rewards. For instance, players exiting in the first round of singles will now receive $81,500, a rise from $80,000 in 2022 and $58,000 in 2019.
The doubles champions will see their winnings increase as well, with each team receiving $700,000, up from $688,000 in 2022.
In a significant move towards further equity, the USTA will allocate additional expense funds for qualifying and main-draw singles and doubles, mixed doubles, and wheelchair events. To support players' travel requirements, they will be provided with $1,000 travel vouchers for the first time. Additionally, competitors will have access to a second free room in an official tournament hotel, a substantial upgrade from the previous provision of only one room. Alternatively, players may opt to receive a stipend of $600 per day (up from $300) for alternative accommodation. The USTA has also increased meal allowances and included racket stringing services for the athletes.
Considering these added benefits, the actual prize money based on performance at the U.S. Open totals approximately $60 million, making it the most lucrative Grand Slam tournament of the year. In comparison, Wimbledon offered around $56.5 million in prizes, while the French Open and the Australian Open provided approximately $54 million and $53 million, respectively, based on currency exchange rates at the time of the events.
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