Women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka has warned Grand Slam organisers that the possibility of a player boycott could grow if athletes’ demands are not addressed.
According to reports, Sabalenka and 20 other leading tennis players recently issued a joint statement expressing disappointment over prize money distribution at French Open.
The players argued that their share in tournament revenues remains too low despite the fact that athletes themselves are the main attraction for fans worldwide.
They claimed that prize money at this year’s Roland Garros would account for less than 15 percent of total tournament revenue, while players are demanding an increase to 22 percent.
In addition to higher prize money, the athletes have also called for greater investment in player welfare programmes and improved representation in decision-making matters.
Sabalenka stated that players are the true essence of tennis and the primary reason fans enjoy the sport, adding that they deserve better financial compensation.
American tennis star Coco Gauff also supported the movement, saying meaningful change could only come through collective action and that the issue was important not just for current players but for future generations as well.
However, world number three Iga Swiatek described the idea of a boycott as a somewhat extreme measure and stressed the importance of resolving the matter through dialogue and negotiations.