The world’s top tennis players are continuing their protest against the body that organizes the Grand Slams. According to them, the prize money offered by the most important tournaments in the world is insufficient compared to the share of overall revenues. A few days after some sharp remarks and rather strong positions were taken (such as those of WTA world number one Aryna Sabalenka and world number four Coco Gauff, who went as far as supporting the idea of boycotting Grand Slam tournaments), the players have decided to move from words to action. According to what was reported by the Guardian, players are planning forms of protest ahead of Roland Garros by reducing their off-court activities to a minimum. In particular, they are expected to limit their media appearances throughout the tournament, leave the opening press conference after 15 minutes next Friday, 22 May, and refrain from giving any further interviews.
The number 15 was not chosen by chance: Grand Slam tournaments allocate 15% of their revenues to prize money. Less than ATP and WTA events (22%), and especially less than major American team sports such as the NFL and NBA (50%). The total prize fund for Roland Garros 2026 amounts to €61.7 million, an increase compared to the previous year, with the winners of the men’s and women’s tournaments receiving €2.8 million each. At the same time, however, tournament revenues have also increased, and for this reason players believe the 15% share is too low, asking at the very least to match the percentage distributed by ATP and WTA events. “Despite record revenues, the share allocated to players continues to decline.” This is stated in a letter signed by 20 leading tennis players, including Sinner, Alcaraz, Sabalenka and Gauff. The letter also denounces the lack of consultation and investment in player welfare, describing a system that “does not adequately represent those who are at the center of the sport’s success”.
This protest against the leadership of the Grand Slams has been ongoing for more than a year. Beyond the issue of prize money, the world’s best tennis players have also highlighted other concerns, such as a general improvement in their working conditions and a greater role in the scheduling of tournaments. Developments one way or another are expected soon, given that Wimbledon is due to begin just a few days after the end of Roland Garros, with its prize fund set to be announced during the second week of June. What is certain is that the prize money will increase compared to the more than €50 million offered last year, but it is also difficult to imagine it will satisfy the players’ demands. And that is precisely the problem.