Jannik Sinner joins tennis prize money protests over French Open revenue
World number one Jannik Sinner has joined a growing player protest over the distribution of prize money at the upcoming French Open.
The Italian spoke at the Italian Open in Rome, echoing deep concerns raised by fellow professionals regarding their share of tournament revenues.
Earlier this week, women’s star Aryna Sabalenka suggested competitors should consider boycotting the Paris Grand Slam entirely.
“It’s more about respect, because I think we give much more than what we are getting back,” said the reigning Australian Open champion.
He noted that the ongoing financial disparity affects the entire tennis tour, rather than strictly impacting the elite bracket.
Revenues spark player frustration
Competitors have targeted Roland Garros officials after calculating that their share of overall revenue is allegedly being reduced.
Players claim their percentage of tournament income will decline from 15.5% in 2024 to a projected 14.9% by 2026.
This contrasts sharply with standard ATP and WTA tour events, which typically offer roughly a 22% slice of revenues to the playing field.
The 22-year-old refused to fully commit to a strike but acknowledged that collective action might soon be necessary.
“It’s tough to say. I cannot predict the future in a way, but at the same time I also believe that somewhere we need to start.”
Demands for urgent discussions
A collective group of professionals sent a formal letter to the four Grand Slam tournaments last year seeking greater financial influence.
While Wimbledon, the US Open and the Australian Open all increased their total prize pots recently, tensions remain largely unresolved.
French Open organisers announced a 10% increase to their overall prize fund last month, taking the total to €61.7m (£52.9m).
However, the playing contingent released a statement claiming the underlying financial figures tell a very different story.
“It’s not nice that after one year we are not even close to a conclusion of what we would like to have,” Sinner added.
The top-ranked star expressed a strong desire for immediate talks with tournament chiefs to resolve the escalating dispute.
“I truly believe that within 48 hours you have not only a response but you also have a meeting.”
Looking ahead to Wimbledon
Focus will soon shift to the grass-court season, with the All England Club yet to announce their financial packages for this summer.
Players are hopeful that upcoming announcements from London and New York will present a fairer and more sustainable financial picture.
“We’ve been quiet for a long time and now the time has come to raise our voice. We’re not asking for 50% – we wouldn’t even dare – but right now we’re getting too little.”
French Open officials have not yet publicly responded to requests for comment regarding the ongoing negotiations.