2026 United Cup: Record $11.8 Million Prize Pool Set for Season Opener
Highlights
- Record-Breaking Purse: The tournament features its largest-ever prize pool of US$11.8 million, split equally between the ATP (men) and WTA (women) tours ($5.9 million each).
- Massive Individual Incentives: The stakes are incredibly high, with an undefeated player potentially earning nearly US$1 million and up to 500 world ranking points—a crucial haul right before the Australian Open.
- Comprehensive Payout Structure: The prize money is distributed through a three-tier system that rewards players for simply participating (based on rank), winning individual matches, and securing overall team victories.
The 2026 tennis season is set to launch with a lucrative bang tomorrow as the United Cup returns to RAC Arena in Perth and Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney. Organizers have confirmed a record-breaking prize pool of approximately US$11.8 million (AUD $18 million) for the fourth edition of the mixed-team event, continuing its tradition of offering equal riches to both the ATP and WTA tours.
With play scheduled to begin on Friday, January 2, 2026, the tournament not only serves as a vital warm-up for the Australian Open but also stands as one of the richest events on the calendar outside the Grand Slams.
The Financial Breakdown
The total prize fund of $11,806,190 is split evenly, with roughly $5.9 million allocated to the ATP (men) and $5.9 million to the WTA (women). Players’ earnings are calculated through a complex three-tier system:
- Participation Fees: Guaranteed payments based on ranking and team position.
- Match Wins: Prize money for individual singles and mixed doubles victories.
- Team Wins: Bonuses awarded to all team members for winning a tie (e.g., beating another country 2-1 or 3-0).
This structure ensures that top-ranked stars are rewarded for their presence while incentivizing every match played.
Maximum Earnings & Ranking Points
The stakes are incredibly high for the world’s best. An undefeated player who competes in all possible matches (singles and mixed doubles) could walk away with nearly US$1 million in total earnings for a week’s work.
Beyond the cash, the United Cup offers up to 500 PIF ATP and WTA ranking points, a significant haul that can reshape the world rankings ahead of the first major of the year. Unlike standard tournaments, points here are awarded based on the ranking of the opponent defeated and the round in which the match occurs.
Projected Payouts (Estimated):
- Participation Fee (Top 10 No. 1 Player): ~$230,000+
- Final Singles Win: ~$296,000
- Group Stage Singles Win: ~$45,000
Star-Studded Field
The massive purse has attracted a stellar field for 2026. Defending champions Team USA, led by World No. 3 Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz, will look to retain their crown in Group A. Meanwhile, Team Poland, Team Germany, and a Team Japan squad bolstered by Naomi Osaka are expected to be fierce contenders.
The tournament kicks off in Perth on January 2, with the finals set to take place in Sydney on January 11.
Quick Facts: United Cup 2026
- Dates: Jan 2 – Jan 11, 2026
- Host Cities: Perth (Group Stage/QF) & Sydney (Group Stage/SF/Finals)
- Total Prize Money: US$11.8 Million (approx.)
- Format: 18 Teams, Round Robin Groups followed by Knockouts
- Points on Offer: Max 500 ATP/WTA Points
