What did the USTA announce about the 2026 US Open’s record $108 million player-compensation purse—including the increases for singles champions and first-round players—how does the decision respond to player pressure over Grand Slam revenue sharing, what new joint Grand Slam Play

The USTA announced a record $108 million 2026 US Open player-compensation package, up 20% from 2025 and the largest purse in tennis. Singles champions will receive $5.5 million each; first-round singles players will receive $140,000.

What it means

• The increase was announced amid players’ organized pressure on the Grand Slams to share more of their revenues—particularly with lower-ranked competitors—and the possibility of a US Open protest. The scale of the package appears intended to address that pressure, though it does not by itself settle the broader revenue-sharing debate.
• Ben Shelton welcomed the increased compensation and said the sport needed a more sustainable financial structure beyond the top ranks. Jessica Pegula, who had said players were awaiting the purse announcement before deciding whether to protest, viewed the announcement positively but maintained that players want meaningful, continuing dialogue and greater transparency. Insufficient evidence in the supplied excerpts supports more detailed or verbatim characterizations of their reactions.
• The US Open, Australian Open, Roland-Garros and Wimbledon also announced a joint Grand Slam Player Advisory Council. It will launch after the 2026 US Open as a formal forum for direct player–Grand Slam communication, feedback and collaboration.
• The USTA additionally introduced a $2 million Player Support Program, initially split equally between men’s and women’s players, aimed at helping address players’ out-of-pocket costs. Insufficient evidence in the supplied excerpts specifies its full eligibility rules or payment mechanics.