The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has announced a 12-month delay regarding an increase in prize money for players competing in the lower-tier level events.
Earlier this year in August, the ITF promised the following changes for 2025:
Prize money in the two entry-level categories will be increased by $5 million (26 per cent).
Prize money to increase from $15,000 to $20,000 at W15/M15 events and the W35/M25 tournaments will increase from $25,000 to $30,000.
Hospitality will be offered at W100, W75 and W50 women's events.
$10,000 increase from $60,000 to $70,000 at W75 tournaments.
2025 will mark four straight years of prize money records in the women's game ($5.7 million increase from 2022 to $20.7 million), and a third consecutive year for men (up $10 million from 2022 to $14.6 million).
In what was a plan to help soften the financial challenges for players in the lower tiers of professional tennis, a record $35.3 million was said to be available in 2025, split across over 1,100 tournaments.
During August's announcement, ITF President Dan Haggerty shared his satisfaction with the changes that will be implemented.
"The ITF World Tennis Tour is a key part of the tennis eco-system, and is the recognised pathway to the top level of the game," he said. "Today’s announcement is further evidence of the ITF’s continued commitment to deliver better prize money, higher standards and sustainable scheduling, (making) the tour a fair and inclusive environment for female and male players to fulfil their potential.
"Crucially, another year of enhanced hospitality and accommodation for women and a fourth consecutive year of record prize money reflects our commitment to achieving gender parity at all levels. The progress we have seen on the ITF World Tennis Tour in recent years is continuing at great pace, and we are excited for the future."
However, parts of those proposed plans have gone out the window in favour of a new financial plan, as confirmed by the ITF in a statement to the players.
"We are writing to inform you about some important updates regarding the announced investment into the World Tennis Tour in 2025. Based on feedback from some nations reflecting the challenging economic environment, some of the planned investment will be delayed until January 2026. Please be assured the commitment to these changes are important for the future of the WTT.
"We are pleased to confirm that the following new items will be introduced in 2025: Prize money increase at M25/W35 level tournaments (from $25,000 to $30,000) Hospitality at W75 tournaments (in addition to W100 tournaments).
"In 2026, we will introduce the following items: Prize money increase at M15/W15 level Prize money increase at W75 level Hospitality at W50 level tournaments.
"We are committed to make the significant investment in the WTT. Taking into consideration the challenging economic conditions and feedback from nations and tournament organisers, we will implement the majority of the changes in 2025 with the remainder being introduced in 2026."
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