In a surprising turn of events at the Ultimate Tennis Showdown (UTS) Grand Final in London, Britain’s Jack Draper, the wildcard invitee in the eight-man field, emerged victorious by winning all his matches. The 21-year-old Londoner not only justified his inclusion but also clinched the title by defeating world no. 8 Holger Rune in a thrilling final.
The UTS matches are played in a quickfire format, featuring 4 eight-minute quarters and no second serve, a format designed to appeal to the younger masses. Draper showcased his prowess by playing through the three-day round-robin event undefeated, triumphing over Casper Ruud in the semi-final and ultimately besting Holger Rune in the final.
Prize-money structure and cash reward bonuses
The prize money at UTS Grand Finals 2023 in London follows a breakdown based on each win. Players earn cash rewards for triumphing in group matches, semifinals, and finals. Additional bonus cash is allocated based on their performance throughout the year in preceding UTS events leading up to the Grand Finals in London.
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For each match win leading up to the finale clash, players receive $77,000 each, including both round-robin and semifinal victories. Winning the finals adds an extra $111,000 to their earnings. Moreover, players who participated in four UTS events worldwide this year and qualified for the London finale while maintaining an undefeated streak stand a chance to claim a mega cash pot bonus.
For example, players like Gael Monfils who played all editions of UTS, having a potential undefeated victory in all round-robin matches and clinching the title, could pocket an additional $500,000 bonus. On the other hand, Andrey Rublev after participating in fewer UTS events, stands to receive a $250,000 bonus. A new entrant like Jack Draper winning his first UTS event undefeated is in line for a $125,000 bonus.
What prize money did the two-finalist earn at UTS Grand Finals, 2023?
In the finals, Jack Draper defeated Holger Rune with a score of 12-14, 15-12, 13-10, 19-7, securing the coveted title as a wildcard invitee. Post the intense competition, Jack Draper amassed a total prize money earnings of $546,800 from the 3-day exhibition event.
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This sum included $77,000 for each of his three group-stage victories and semifinal win, $111,000 for his title triumph, and an additional $125,000 bonus for his unbeaten run as a first-time entrant. On the other hand, Holger Rune, victorious in two round-robin matches and the semifinals, claimed a prize money of $231,000.
The exciting prize offerings for the exhibition tournament coupled with the unpredictable twists and turns of the unique UTS format, promise an exciting future for this revolutionary approach to tennis.