In a stunning move to ramp up excitement for one of the oldest soccer tournaments in the United States, U.S. Soccer has announced that the prize money for the 2025 U.S. Open Cup will be doubled to an unprecedented $1 million! This is part of a bold initiative to enhance interest and investment in the tournament, which has struggled with visibility in recent years.

The new prize structure sees the winning team taking home a whopping $600,000, while the runner-up will earn a hefty $250,000. To further incentivize participation, U.S. Soccer has designated $50,000 for the highest-ranked teams from Division II, Division III, and the Open Division.

David Wright, U.S. Soccer's Chief Commercial Officer, stated, "This year's increased purse demonstrates U.S. Soccer's commitment to enhancing enthusiasm around the Open Cup as we celebrate the 110th edition of this historic tournament." With matches already beginning, anticipation is at an all-time high for what promises to be an action-packed tournament.

But the stakes aren't just monetary; the winner of the 2025 U.S. Open Cup will also secure a coveted spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. This provides a significant incentive not only for professional teams but also for amateur clubs vying to prove their mettle on a larger stage.

Historically, the U.S. Open Cup has allowed a mix of both professional and amateur teams to compete in a thrilling knockout format – a unique aspect that sets it apart from other competitions. However, doubts about its future loomed large last year when Major League Soccer (MLS) suggested withdrawing its primary teams due to concerns over the tournament's quality and timing. A compromise was ultimately struck, allowing eight MLS teams to compete, and this year, the tournament will see 16 MLS teams, 24 from the USL Championship, 14 from USL League One, 10 from MLS NEXT Pro, and 14 representatives from the open division qualifying rounds.

In a strategic decision to prevent calendar congestion, those MLS teams not participating in the U.S. Open Cup will focus on a face-off against Liga MX in the 2025 Leagues Cup, demonstrating the careful balancing act leagues are playing in maximizing competitive opportunities while maintaining a manageable schedule.

As the tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on the field, where teams from various levels will clash for glory, cash, and a spot in continental competitions. This year’s U.S. Open Cup promises to have thrilling matches, unexpected upsets, and a showcase of the best talent across American soccer! Don’t miss the action!