Aryna Sabalenka: A boycott may be necessary over prize-sharing issues

Rome — Top Arina Sabalenka He said that tennis players should organize a boycott if the Grand Slams don’t start getting a bigger share of tournament revenue.

Sabalenka and colleagues No. 1 A mortal sinner Among the top players — most of them ranked in the top 10 — were those issued a statement expressed “deep disappointment” over the prize money at the French Open on Monday.

“Without us there wouldn’t be a tournament and it wouldn’t be entertainment. I think for sure we deserve a bigger percentage,” Sabalenka said Tuesday while celebrating her 28th birthday at the Italian Open.

“I think at some point we’re going to boycott it. I think that’s the only way to fight for our rights.”

Players are seeking better representation, health options and pensions from the four Grand Slam tournaments: Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open.

French Open organizers announced last month that they had increased overall prize money by nearly 10% for a total pot of 61.7 million euros ($72.1 million), a total increase of 5.3 million euros from last year.

But the players’ statement said “the underlying figures tell a very different story,” claiming they would receive a smaller share of the tournament’s proceeds.

“Players’ share of Roland Garros tournament revenue is projected to drop from 15.5% in 2024 to 14.9% in 2026”.

Iga SwiatekA four-time French Open champion, said “The most important thing is to have proper communication and discussions with the governing bodies so that we have some space to talk and maybe negotiate.

“Hopefully there will be a chance to have these kinds of meetings before Roland Garros and we’ll see how they go,” Suatek added. “But to boycott the tournament, that’s a bit of an extreme situation.”

French Open organizers did not respond to a request for comment after the players’ statement was issued.