WTA to Award Equal Prize Money at All Events in 2027
WTA Declares Equal Prize Money for Every Event in 2027
For the first time in its history, the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has announced that every event on its 2027 calendar will offer equal prize money to women and men. This landmark decision was revealed alongside the release of the 2027 schedule, covering 55 tournaments held across 26 countries and territories.
This step marks a major moment not only for tennis but for women's sports as a whole. Notably, all combined WTA 1000 tournaments will award equal prize money, fulfilling an aim the WTA has pursued since its establishment over 50 years ago.
Events Committing to Equal Pay
Among those confirming equal prize money are prestigious competitions such as the Italian Open, National Bank Open presented by Rogers, and Cincinnati Open. These join a list of events including the BNP Paribas Open, Miami Open, and every Grand Slam tournament, all committed to financial parity between male and female players.
A Vision More Than Five Decades in the Making
The WTA credits pioneers like Billie Jean King and other founders of the association in 1973 for laying the groundwork for this achievement. Current WTA chair Valerie Camillo praised the players’ ongoing role in emphasizing the importance of equal prize money and called the 2027 milestone a significant advancement for tennis.
"The WTA is stepping up to deliver more for players and tournaments in 2027. We have listened to player feedback on the demands of the calendar, and responded with a meaningful reduction in commitments. Achieving equal prize money across all combined WTA 1000 tournaments is a major milestone for tennis. It demonstrates the WTA's continued commitment to leading the sports industry in delivering our athletes competitive and financial equality, and is a testament to the enduring nature of the founding vision of the WTA."
In previous years, some events had pledged equal prize money but failed to meet it, as was the case with the Italian Open. The new 2027 plan ensures that such shortfalls will no longer occur.
