Melbourne - Money doesn't seem to be in short supply for the 2010 Australian Open as officials Tuesday joined the other free-spending Grand Slams to hand a healthy prize-money rise to players. On offer is a record equivalent of 21 million dollars, an increase of more than 4 per cent from 2009. Singles champion on the men's and women's side will each pocket a handy 1.8 million with the world financial crisis easing.
"In this time of economic uncertainty, the Australian Open holds strong as an important international brand in the world of sport and business," the tournament boss Craig Tiley.
The January 18-31 major is expected to provide value for money with the return of former No. 1 Justine Henin and the participation of newly un-retired Kim Clijsters, the US Open champion.
"I think the respective title races will be more open than they have been in years," said Tiley.
"(Argentine Juan) Del Potro's win in New York has blown the men's event wide open and Clijsters' effort, combined with Henin's comeback, has had a similar effect on the women's."
Other changes include an earlier start time for first-week night sessions after massive complaints over consistent post-midnight late finishes and an improved entertainment precinct on the grounds of Melbourne park which also includes a new official wine sponsor.
