The 2025 US Open is set to become the most lucrative tennis tournament in history, with total prize money surpassing $90 million. Tournament organizers announced Wednesday that this years mens and womens singles champions will each take home $5 million a 39% increase from last years $3.6 million. Overall, the prize purse marks a 20% boost from the 2024 total of $75 million. Substantial pay raises have also been announced for players reaching the later rounds: Singles finalists: $2.5 million (up 26%)Semifinalists: $1.26 million (up 26%)Quarterfinalists: $660,000 (up 25%) For the first time, winners of the mens, womens, and mixed doubles will each receive $1 million per team. This announcement follows a reported letter from top players urging the four Grand Slam tournaments including the US Open to increase prize money. In response, US Open officials said they were committed to raising payouts across all rounds, not just for top players, ensuring "double-digit percentage increases from 2024 in all rounds of all events." Additionally, $5 million has been allocated for player expenses. This includes a $1,000 travel stipend per player and accommodations, either two rooms at the official hotel or $600 per day for alternative lodging. Qualifiers begin August 18, with the main singles draws running from August 24 to September 7. This years tournament introduces a bold new format for mixed doubles. Now scheduled for August 19 and 20 before the main draw begins the revamped event features high-profile pairings such as: Carlos Alcaraz & Emma Raducanu, Jannik Sinner & Emma Navarro, Casper Ruud & Iga witek, Aryna Sabalenka & Grigor Dimitrov.The change aims to draw more fan attention and give broadcasters a marquee showcase ahead of singles play. The USTA says it wants to elevate mixed doubles and reduce schedule conflicts for star players. However, not everyone is on board. Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori criticized the format as a pseudo-exhibition that disrespects an entire category of players. Half of the 16-team draw will be composed of wild cards, while the other half is based on combined singles rankings. The USTA maintains the shift will spotlight the competition and help grow the sport by engaging more fans.
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