COVID, Playing Without Fans Forces Major Pay Cut On U.S. Open Winner

The winners of the 2020 U.S. Open tennis tournament will see a pay cut to the tune of $850,000 at this year’s tournament thanks to COVID and the lack of fans in the stands, according to USTA. In a statement this week, the USTA stated players would be compensated a total of $53.4 million, down about 5% from 2019, but the organization will be paying first round players a 5% pay increase — to $61,000 from $58,000.

The USTA says the pay increase for those participating “represents a commitment to supporting players and their financial well-being during an unprecedented time.” In other words, here’s extra money for showing up so we can have a solid tournament during COVID times.

The other bads news, besides the pay cut for the winner, is the list of players who won’t be participating:  Stan Wawrinka, Rafael Nadal, Nick Kyrgios, Ashleigh Barty, Elina Svitolina and Kiki Bertens. Meanwhile,  Andy Murray and Kim Clijsters received wild cards to participate.

2020 U.S. Open pay scale:

Singles:
Winner: $3,000,000
Runner-Up: $1,500,000
Semifinalist: $800,000
Quarterfinalist: $425,000
Round of 16: $250,000
Round of 32: $163,000
Round of 64: $100,000
Round of 128: $61,000

Doubles (each team):
Winner: $400,000
Runner-Up: $240,000
Semifinalist: $130,000
Quarterfinalist: $91,000
Round of 16: $50,000
Round of 32: $30,000

We know that the reduced tennis calendar is barbaric this year after 4 months stopped with no play, I understand and thank for the efforts they are putting in to make it happen. We have just seen the announcement of Madrid not being played this year.

— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020

This is a decision I never wanted to take but I have decided to follow my heart this time and for the time being I rather not travel. pic.twitter.com/8VA0aSACVy

— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020