Aryna Sabalenka suggests Grand Slam boycott over French Open prize money
World number one Aryna Sabalenka has warned that tennis players could boycott Grand Slam tournaments unless they receive an increased share of event revenues, starting with the upcoming French Open.
The Belarusian star, alongside men’s number one Jannik Sinner, was among several elite competitors who released a joint statement expressing deep disappointment regarding financial compensation at Roland Garros.
Competitors are demanding improved revenue distribution alongside enhanced representation, health benefits and pension schemes across all four major championships.
Threat of strike action
Speaking ahead of the Italian Open in Rome, the top-ranked player insisted that drastic measures might be necessary to force systemic financial change within the sport.
“Without us there wouldn’t be a tournament and there wouldn’t be that entertainment. I feel like we deserve to be paid more.”
Sabalenka continued by suggesting that withholding player participation might become an inevitability.
“I think at some point we will boycott it. I feel like that’s going to be the only way to fight for our rights.”
Disputed revenue figures
Despite organisers announcing a 10 per cent increase to the overall Parisian prize pot last month, athletes claim the underlying financial figures highlight a proportional decrease in their true earnings.
According to the players’ collective declaration, the athlete share of tournament revenue in the French capital has projected a decline from 15.5 per cent in 2024 to 14.9 per cent for the 2026 event.
This dispute arrives shortly after officials confirmed the total compensation package for this year’s clay-court major would rise by £4.6m to a record £53.5m.
Swiatek urges dialogue
Four-time Roland Garros winner Iga Swiatek offered a more measured response, suggesting that immediate strike action remains an extreme scenario.
“The most important thing is to have proper communication and discussions with the governing bodies so we have some space to talk and maybe negotiate.”
The Polish international remains hopeful that productive conversations can take place before the second major of the season begins.
“Hopefully before Roland Garros there’s going to be opportunity to have these type of meetings and we’ll see how they go.”
“But boycotting the tournament, it’s a bit extreme kind of situation.”
French Open officials have not yet issued a formal public response following the release of the players’ declaration.