The bank balance of Australian teenage tennis sensation Emerson Jones is about to receive a massive boost, with the 17-year-old guaranteed a minimum payday of $150,000 at next week's Australian Open. This comes as Tennis Australia announces a record-breaking total prize pool of $111.5 million for the season's first grand slam.
Wildcard Entry Secures Major Payday for Queensland Teen
Emerson Jones, the promising Queenslander, has been awarded a coveted wildcard into the main draw at Melbourne Park. This means that even if she suffers a first-round exit, she will walk away with a life-changing sum. This marks a significant step for Jones, who made her grand slam debut at the same tournament last year, where she fell to sixth seed Elena Rybakina in the opening round.
However, the teenager heads into this year's event with renewed confidence following a standout victory over experienced campaigner Tatjana Maria at the Brisbane International this week. Her guaranteed earnings underscore the financial opportunities now available to players at all stages of the competition.
Record Prize Money Boost Across the Board
The total prize money for the 2025 Australian Open has seen an average increase of 16 per cent. The champions in both the men's and women's singles will enjoy the largest jump, with a 19 per cent raise bringing the winner's cheque to a staggering $4.15 million, up from $3.5 million in 2024.
The increases are designed to support the entire player field. Even those who lose in the first round of qualifying will now take home $40,500, a 16 per cent rise. Tennis Australia has also committed to providing greater travel and welfare assistance for players facing financial challenges, acknowledging the global nature and costs of the tour.
Tournament Boss Highlights Commitment to Players
Australian Open tournament director and Tennis Australia CEO, Craig Tiley, stated the across-the-board increases demonstrate a deep commitment to players at every level of the sport. "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 that the Open's prize pool is part of a broader $135 million investment into the Australian tennis summer, encompassing events like the United Cup and tournaments in Brisbane, Hobart, and Adelaide.
Prize Money Breakdown and Tournament Schedule
The detailed prize money increases for the 2025 Australian Open are as follows:
- Winner: $4.15M (+19%)
- 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 prize money per round also saw a 16 per cent rise: First round (Q1) losers get $40,500, second round (Q2) $57,000, and third round (Q3) $83,500.
Australian Open qualifying begins next Monday, with the main draw action commencing on Sunday, January 18. All eyes will be on local hope Emerson Jones as she steps onto the court with both competitive ambition and significant financial security from her historic wildcard entry.
