US tennis star Coco Gauff is leading a growing chorus of players demanding a more substantial increase in prize money from Grand Slam tournaments. This push comes despite the recent announcement of a record-breaking prize fund hike for the upcoming Australian Open.
Record Increase Still Falls Short, Say Players
This month, organisers of the Australian Open revealed a 16 per cent increase in the total prize pool, bringing it to a historic AU$111.5 million (approximately £56 million). The men's and women's singles champions will each pocket over £2 million for their triumph in Melbourne.
However, Gauff and her peers argue this is insufficient when measured against the soaring revenues generated by the sport's four major tournaments. The collective aim among the playing group is to secure a share exceeding 20 per cent of Grand Slam revenue, a target they believe is fair given their role as the main attraction.
Frustration Over Slow Progress in Revenue Talks
Gauff was involved in discussions between top players and tournament representatives at Roland Garros last spring and expects further negotiations this year. She expressed a shared sense of frustration at the sluggish pace of change.
"From my understanding, they obviously increased the prize money this year," Gauff stated. "The percentage is still, of revenue comparison, not where we would like it. I think there’s still further conversations that have to be had, not just with the Australian Open but with all the slams."
While acknowledging progress, she emphasised the players' desire for a quicker resolution. "The collective feeling is that, yes, there’s been progress, but I still think it’s not where we would like to see it," she added. "I imagine that there will be continually more meetings. I think no one wants this conversation to be continuing for years and years."
Calls for Welfare Benefits and a Seat at the Table
The players' demands extend beyond pure prize money. They are also advocating for the Grand Slams to contribute to player welfare and pension benefits. Furthermore, they seek formal representation to influence other critical issues, such as tournament scheduling.
Reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys strongly endorsed the push for a fairer financial partnership. "I think it’s really important. We obviously give a lot of ourselves to this sport," said Keys. "They (the slams), being the highest revenue holders, I think it absolutely makes sense. As we are the product, it makes sense for us to be partners."
Keys, who defeated Aryna Sabalenka to claim her first major title in Melbourne last January, remains cautiously optimistic. "I think that it has been the most productive conversations that we’ve ever had, which leads me to be carefully optimistic, I think, for the future," she concluded.
