US Open announces record prize money increase

The United States Tennis Association has announced a record increase in prize money for this year's US Open, making it the most lucrative tournament in the sport's history.

The Grand Slam has increased its overall pot by 37%, with a total of $34.3m (£22.5m) available to players.

The men's and women's singles champions will each pocket $2.6m (£1.7m), while the runners-up will each get $1.3m (£856,000).

Meanwhile, a first-round loser will pick up $32,000 (£21,000).

This year's US Open begins on August 26 at Flushing Meadows, New York.