Nick Kyrgios Makes Huge ‘Money’ Confession About the Rest of his Career
Nick Kyrgios lost in his opening round at the Brisbane International.
Nick Kyrgios (Image via X/Advantage Tennis)
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Nick Kyrgios is not new to making headlines. The Australian tennis star has grabbed attention wherever he goes, be it on and off the court.
Kyrgios may have lost in the opening round of the Brisbane International, but he has made some incredible confessions in his post-match press conference. One of the confessions was about being financially stable for the rest of his professional career.
One of my biggest motivations has always been to make money from tennis, I’m not going to lie. My parents weren’t rich and I’m not ashamed to say that if I continue playing, it’s to make money. I’m at a stage in my career where the financial goal is the most important, so it’s been great to play several exhibition matches this past month. I feel at peace with myself because I’m doing exactly what I want.
Tennis is considered to be one of the most expensive sports of all time. And players like Kyrgios have made huge money through different career opportunities in the game. Outside of being a tennis player, he has also commentated in different Grand Slam events.
Nick Kyrgios puts forward his expectations for the 2026 Australian Open
Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has underlined his expectations for the 2026 Australian Open. The 2022 Wimbledon runners-up is excited ahead of a potential opportunity to play in front of his adoring local supporters.
I’d love to play in Melbourne. I feel like I have the best connection with the Australian public right now, in my entire career. It’s exciting to see young children watching me play, cheering me on, and getting hooked on the sport. I know I can still put on a great show. In fact, I think my doubles match with Kokkinakis entertained the crowd more than any other match in the entire tournament. I want to keep playing as much as possible this year and do my best.
Kyrgios has entertained the Australian crowd in various ways. For example, he conceived the SIU celebration at the 2022 Australian Open, which is reminiscent of what fans see when soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo scores a goal.
However, the results haven’t been the same since he reached the Wimbledon final in 2022. So much so, the Brisbane International defeat was the first time since the Miami Masters last year that he played a match on the ATP Tour.
Despite the problems, Kyrgios has appeared in much better physical shape. He has been involved in pre-season exhibitions, including the controversial Battle of Sexes match against Aryna Sabalenka.
Australian Open 2026 prize money increased by 16%
The 2026 Australian Open will offer a total prize money of AUD $111.5 million. This represents a 16% increase from last year. Players earn money even if they lose early. First-round singles players receive $150,000, while second-round players earn $225,000.

Singles champions, both men and women, will take home $4.15 million. Runner-ups earn $2.15 million, and semifinalists receive $1.25 million. Prize money rises at every round. Even a first-round loss pays far more than the average Australian annual salary.
Doubles events also provide strong financial rewards. Prize money has steadily increased since 2021. While figures for 2026 are not fully confirmed, winners in 2025 earned $810,000. Mixed doubles pays less, but still offers six-figure rewards for champions.
Qualifying players are also well compensated. A first-round qualifying loss pays $40,500. Reaching the final qualifying round earns $83,500. This ensures financial support even before the main draw begins.
Also Read: Elena Rybakina Sets Big Grand Slam Goals After Securing First Win of 2026 in Brisbane