Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner declined to answer two questions about the ongoing media boycott during his pre-tournament press conference. The Italian is among several leading players protesting the prize money allocation at the All England Club.
Prize Money Dispute
The All England Club increased the total prize fund to £64.2 million, but this represents only a 14.4 per cent share of revenue — far below the 22 per cent target sought by players. In response, players have written to Wimbledon's leadership, outlining plans to restrict media obligations to 15 minutes throughout the first week of the Championship.
In a statement, the players explained the decision was taken to "[reflect] that Wimbledon currently pays slightly below 15 per cent of revenues to players as prize money."
Sinner's Response
Sinner answered the first question on the matter, saying: "I think it's getting better, even though we are not at the point where we are 100% happy. In the same time we have seen improvement. Again, it's not about the money - not only about the money. It's the whole scenario we take into consideration with welfare and everything else. Let's see. But yeah, it's in the future."
When pressed specifically about welfare issues, he dismissed further enquiries: "I just think it's better if we don't discuss here. I don't like to talk about this at the moment." He also declined to reveal why demonstrations continue despite some advancement on prize money, adding: "Look, I think we talked enough about this at the moment. The Grand Slams know what we ask, then we see how it goes. Again, I'm here now to talk about tennis."
Defending Champion
Sinner defeated Carlos Alcaraz in four sets to claim the title last year. It was his maiden men's singles victory at SW19, and he has an opportunity to defend his crown with Alcaraz sidelined through injury. The 24-year-old encountered difficulties at the French Open earlier this year, falling to Juan Manuel Cerundolo in the second round while battling high temperatures.
He launches his 2026 Wimbledon challenge against Miomir Kecmanovic on Monday. Discussing tests he underwent after Roland Garros, Sinner said: "[They] were general tests to see health-wise how I was, to be sure that all is okay with the body, which is. All tests were really good. Even though we are very sure we need to practice in hotter conditions. I feel like everywhere where we play is going to be very hot. Every year is getting warmer and warmer. It a very important topic. But at the same time I'm happy the work we're doing. We try to improve in the best possible way, then we see how it goes in the future."
