Leading tennis players are demanding a larger share of tournament revenue ahead of the 2026 French Open, with tensions rising over prize money and player welfare.
Top stars, including Novak Djokovic, Coco Gauff, and Aryna Sabalenka, are pushing for an increase in the percentage of revenue allocated to players at Grand Slam tournaments.
Currently, players receive around 14 to 15 percent of total tournament revenue, significantly lower than the approximately 22 percent distributed at other ATP and WTA events.
Despite rising revenues, players argue that their share has declined in recent years. The French Open, for example, generated over €400 million in revenue, while prize money accounts for less than 15 percent of that total.
In response, players are planning a protest during the tournament, including limiting media appearances and walking out of press conferences after the mandatory 15-minute sessions.
Some players have also raised the possibility of a boycott if their demands are not addressed, highlighting growing frustration within the sport.
Beyond prize money, the players are also calling for improved welfare, including better health support, pension structures, and greater involvement in decision-making within the sport.
Tournament organisers have acknowledged the concerns but say discussions will continue, with no immediate changes expected to the revenue structure.
The dispute is shaping up to be one of the biggest off-court issues in tennis, with potential implications for future Grand Slam tournaments if an agreement is not reached.
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