The Credit One Charleston Open has once again shown its commitment to the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz by voluntarily doubling the prize money on offer for the 2026 edition.
The tournament will offer a total financial package of $2.5m funded by sponsor Credit One Bank, consisting of a record $2.3m going towards players’ on-site prize money in addition to $200k being contributed towards WTA player benefit programs.
Charleston’s landmark decision means it is the first standalone WTA 500 event to proactively offer equal prize, in line with what is required for an ATP 500 level event. The announcement marks a historic milestone as the WTA continues on its pathway towards prize money equality, with all tournaments at this level projected to offer equal prize money by 2033.
Venus Williams, a pivotal figure throughout her career for equal prize money and 2004 Charleston champion, commented: “This is a huge moment for the legacy of our sport which sends a powerful message to the players, fans and the future of tennis. It shows real progress and a belief in the value of women’s sport.”
Portia Archer, WTA CEO, said: “Charleston’s 2026 financial commitment is an empowering statement about where our sport is headed. It represents a smart, strategic investment in the economic strength and future of the sport and highlights that investment in women’s tennis drives growth, opportunity, and value. We’re proud to see a tournament with such history take this important step forward.”
Ben Navarro, Tournament Owner of the Credit One Charleston Open, added: “Women’s tennis is delivering at a very high level right now, from the quality of competition to the engagement from fans, and this investment reflects that. Offering equal prize money is about respecting the players and the work they put in, and aligning the tournament with the value of the game.”
The $200k figure will be contributed to the Women’s Tennis Benefit Association (WTBA) which offers key services to WTA players including a pension plan, health insurance and subsidized college tuition and online degrees through the University of Florida and Indiana University East.
Charleston, voted as the 2025 WTA 500 Tournament of the Year by the WTA player body for the fourth season in a row, is no stranger to Tour-firsts as last year it became the first WTA Tour clay event to introduce Electronic Line Calling Live.
Click here to read more about Charleston offering an unprecedented $2.5m during their 2026 tournament when it takes place across March 28 to April 5, including further reaction from former champions Madison Keys and Jessica Pegula.