Aryna Sabalenka has voiced her support for a potential boycott as a dispute escalates following player fury over the French Open's prize money announcement. The world number two is among a group of elite tennis stars who have expressed "deep disappointment" at the tournament's financial terms.
Player Discontent Over Revenue Share
Top players including Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Swiatek, and Sabalenka have criticised the French Open organisers for failing to address structural issues. While the total prize fund has increased by 9.53 per cent to £53.25 million (€61.7 million), with singles champions receiving £2.4 million (€2.8 million), the players' share of tournament revenue has fallen from 15.5 per cent in 2024 to a projected 14.9 per cent this year.
The athletes highlight that the French Open is projected to generate £345 million (€400 million) in revenue, yet players receive less than 15 per cent. By contrast, joint ATP and WTA 1000 events like the Italian Open distribute 22 per cent of revenues as prize money.
Call for Greater Influence and Welfare Support
In a statement issued on behalf of the signatories, the players said: "As Roland Garros looks to post record revenues, players are therefore receiving a declining share of the value they help create. More critically, the announcement does nothing to address the structural issues that players have consistently and reasonably raised over the past year."
The players have called for a formal mechanism for player consultation within Grand Slam decision-making, improved pension and long-term health schemes, and greater transparency. They noted that there has been "no engagement" on player welfare and "no progress" towards fair representation.
Sabalenka, who lost to Coco Gauff in the 2025 final, has backed the collective action, which includes a possible boycott if demands are not met. The French Open begins later this month in Paris.
