US Open winners face $850,000 pay cut

The winners of this year's US Open singles titles will receive $850,000 less than last year's champions as the tournament feels the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, organizers said on Wednesday.

In a statement, the US Open said this year's event, which is taking place without fans, will have a total prize pool of $53.4 million, compared with around $57 million in 2019. The winners of the men's and women's singles will receive $3 million each, compared to $3.85 million apiece in 2019.

However, players in the first rounds will receive a pay bump in recognition of financial hardship endured during a season that has been decimated by COVID-19.

First-round players will receive $61,000 this year, compared to $58,000 in 2019. Money for the second and third rounds remains unchanged at $100,000 and $163,000 respectively. The United States Tennis Association said it will also make available $7.6 million to provide monetary assistance to players who have seen earning opportunities stymied by the sport's near-five-month shutdown.

XINHUA — AGENCIES