Credit One Bank Reshapes Tennis Landscape with Equal Prize Money Commitment

Credit One Bank Reshapes Tennis Landscape

In a progressive move for women's sports, Credit One Bank has announced the extension of its title sponsorship for the Credit One Charleston Open through 2031. This announcement includes a groundbreaking commitment to equal prize money for both male and female competitors starting in 2026, a decision that positions the tournament as an industry leader in gender parity.

The Credit One Charleston Open stands out as North America's largest women's-only professional tennis tournament, drawing significant attention not just for the caliber of athletic talent on display, but also for its historic role in championing gender equality. This commitment to equal pay is set against the backdrop of the Hologic WTA Tour, where the Charleston Open makes strides toward elevating the status of women in sports.

Amber Greenwalt, Senior Vice President at Credit One Bank, emphasized the company’s dedication to fostering empowerment, stating, "Just as the Credit One Charleston Open has built a legacy of empowerment since 1973, Credit One is also dedicated to fostering momentum and celebrating achievements by empowering people in their financial journeys. This commitment reflects our dedication to advancing equity both on and off the court."

The Charleston Open's move to ensure equal prize money is particularly significant as it becomes the first standalone WTA 500 tournament to take proactive measures ahead of the 2033 requirement, unifying the prize offerings for female athletes with those of their male counterparts at ATP events. The decision not only recognizes the talent and effort put forth by female players but also highlights the broader societal movement toward equality in all sectors.

Historically, the tournament has championed female athletes for decades, having been the first women's tennis event to award $100,000 in prize money back in 1973. The inaugural champion, Rosie Casals, received the highest payout for a woman at the time, signaling a monumental shift in the perception and treatment of women in sports.

The Charleston Open aims to bridge the gap in prize money, with the 2025 total purse reaching $1,064,510. By aligning this with ATP 500 tournaments, where prize money exceeds $2 million, Charleston is not just following trends but setting them. The exact purse for the 2026 tournament will be finalized following official figures for that year.

Tournament owner Ben Navarro echoed this sentiment, noting, "We believe in fostering an environment where all athletes are recognized and rewarded. Providing equal prize money in 2026 is a significant step toward creating a more inclusive future for tennis. We are proud to support fairness and lead by example."

With a long-standing history of innovation, the tournament has not only set records in attendance but has also gained viewership from millions globally, making it one of the most popular events on the calendar. Last year, attendance exceeded 90,000, and a remarkable 26 million viewers tuned in internationally.

Charleston Tennis, LLC, which operates the Credit One Stadium, has also invested in its future. The venue saw significant upgrades in 2022, improving facilities and ensuring that it remains an attractive location for premier events, further enhancing the experience for competitors and viewers alike.

The Credit One Charleston Open is a hallmark event in the women’s tennis calendar, drawing commendation from fans and industry leaders. Awarded the WTA 500 Tournament of the Year for three consecutive years, this tournament champions female athletes while paving the way for future generations. With its commitment to equal prize money and ongoing support for women's sports, Credit One Bank continues to reshape the landscape of tennis and gender equity in sports.

In summary, the Credit One Charleston Open not only celebrates the achievements of female athletes but actively contributes to a vision of equality and opportunity on the global stage. As we look ahead to 2026, the tournament stands ready to make history, ensuring all competitors are rewarded equitably, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of women's contributions to sports.