World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has warned that tennis players may resort to a boycott if Grand Slam tournament organizers fail to increase the share of prize money. In an interview with Sky Sports, the Belarusian star stated that such a step could become the only way for players to defend their rights.
Earlier this week, a group of 20 top ATP and WTA players, including Sabalenka, Novak Djokovic, and Jannik Sinner, issued a joint statement expressing disappointment with the prize money levels at the upcoming French Open. In April, organizers of Roland Garros announced a 9.5% increase in the total prize pool to €61.7 million, with singles champions receiving €2.8 million and runners-up €1.4 million. However, leading players consider this rise insufficient.
“Without us, there would be no tournament and no such spectacle. I believe we deserve better compensation. I think at some point we will announce a boycott. It seems to me that this will be the only way to fight for our rights,” Sabalenka said.
The 26-year-old set a record for women’s tennis last season by earning $15 million in prize money alone.
