Charleston Open Increases Prize Purse for Women's Tennis

The long-running tournament continues its legacy of supporting women's sports.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:45am

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The Credit One Charleston Open, a women's tennis tournament first held in 1973 on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is increasing its prize purse as it continues its legacy of being a pioneer in supporting women's sports.

Why it matters

The Charleston Open is one of the longest-running women's tennis tournaments in the world, and its decision to increase the prize money demonstrates a continued commitment to elevating the women's game and providing equal opportunities for female athletes.

The details

The Charleston Open, which moved to Daniel Island in 1973, has announced that it will be increasing its total prize purse for the 2026 tournament. This move aligns with a broader trend in women's sports of improving compensation and investment, helping to close the longstanding gap with men's professional sports.

  • The Charleston Open was first held in 1973 on Hilton Head Island.
  • The tournament moved to Daniel Island in 1973.

The players

Credit One Charleston Open

A women's tennis tournament that has been held annually since 1973, making it one of the longest-running women's tennis events in the world.

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What’s next

The 2026 Charleston Open is scheduled to take place in the spring, with the exact dates to be announced in the coming months.

The takeaway

The Charleston Open's decision to increase its prize purse is a positive step forward for women's tennis, reinforcing the tournament's legacy as a leader in supporting and elevating the women's game.