CHARLSON, S.C. — The Charleston Open said Sunday that it will pay equal prizes for women and men from 2026.
Additionally, the event extended its agreement with title partner Credit One Bank until 2031.
The prize money for WTA-500-level events is the same as for male ATP-500-level events. This will force Charleston to hold the first standalone WTA 500 tournament to hike the prize money before the 2033 goal of all WTA 1000 and 500 events in the week, paying the same prize money as the men.
The 500 level is two under the Grand Slam, one level of Master 1000.
“This commitment reflects our commitment to moving forward both inside and outside the court as we continue to defend the progress and opportunity of all people,” Amber Greenwalt, senior vice president of brands and advertising at Credit One Bank, said in a statement.
Charleston’s open prize in 2025 was expected to reach $1.06 million, and by 2026 it was scheduled to rise to around $1.15 million. The wallet matches the ATP 500 event. This usually exceeds $2 million along with the amount finalized after the official prize money for the 2026 season was released.
The nine-day event kicks off the clay season of the WTA Tour, with 48 players single draws, 28 qualifying draws and 16 double draws. The Charleston Open is the largest women’s only tennis tournament in North America.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.