Charleston makes history as first WTA 500 to match ATP 500 Prize Money: “Next year’s champion will receive equal compensation”

The Charleston Open has made history by becoming the first WTA 500 event to offer equal prize money to its ATP 500 counterpart. While Grand Slam tournaments have already adopted equal pay for men and women, that parity is still being phased in across the rest of the Tour.

Currently, ATP 250 and ATP 500 tournaments offer more prize money than their all-women equivalents. The WTA has set a 2033 deadline for all tournaments to achieve prize money equality, but Charleston will be the first to reach this target after voluntarily increasing its prize pool for 2026.

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It was recently confirmed that the Charleston Open’s partnership with Credit One Bank will be extended for another five years. The clay-court tournament has become one of the most prominent events on the WTA 500 calendar. As part of the announcement, Credit One Bank’s SVP of Brand and Advertising, Amber Greenwalt, shared the positive news for the WTA Tour.

“Credit One is proud to reaffirm our sponsorship of this premier all-women’s tennis tournament through 2031,” she stated. “Just as the Credit One Charleston Open has built a legacy of empowerment since 1973, Credit One is also dedicated to fostering momentum and celebrating achievements by empowering people in their financial journeys.”

“In alignment with this vision, we are thrilled to confirm that next year’s champion of the Charleston Open will receive compensation equal to that of their male counterparts in comparable tournaments. This commitment reflects our dedication to advancing equity both on and off the court, as we continue to champion progress and opportunity for all.”

The tournament owner, Ben Navarro – father of World No. 10 Emma Navarro – celebrated the deal with Credit One that will allow Charleston to pioneer equal prize money at this level of tournament. “At the Credit One Charleston Open, we believe in fostering an environment where all athletes are recognized and rewarded for their talent and dedication,” he said.

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“Providing equal prize money in 2026 is a significant step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable future for tennis. We are proud to take this action as part of our ongoing commitment to support fairness in sports and lead by example for the next generation.”

This year’s total prize money was $1,064,510, with an initial increase to around $1.15 million expected by 2026. However, the new agreement will boost the prize pool to nearly $2 million—matching ATP 500 levels. The official prize amount will be revealed in the weeks leading up to the 2026 edition.

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