October 8, 2008 - In tough economic times, it’s hard to find anyone giving pay raises these days but organizers of the Australian Open have announced that men’s and women’s singles winners will be receiving an 18 percent increase.
The 2009 Australian Open will offer $US 15.6 million in prize money.
While 2008 champions Maria Sharapova and Novak Djokovic each won $US 970,000, next year’s trophy-holders will carry off a comfortable $US 1.15 million apiece based on current exchange rates (11.5 million euros).
To rake in more television money and pay the increased bills, the women are headed to a night final, sure to bolster viewer numbers and make the event the only major to play both championship matches under the lights.
We’re guessing that admission prices will also increase.
The Australian Open, the year’s first Grand Slam event, will be held Jan. 19-Feb. 1, 2009.
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