World No. 1 Jannik Sinner expressed sympathy for players who have discussed the possibility of boycotting Grand Slam tournaments over prize money issues. The Italian’s remarks were reported by the Associated Press on May 7.
On May 4, a group of 20 leading ATP and WTA players, including Aryna Sabalenka, Novak Djokovic, and Sinner himself, issued a joint statement voicing discontent with the prize money levels at the upcoming French Open. The players also demanded the introduction of a pension system and long-term medical coverage.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Rome Masters, Sinner recalled that in April 2025, top players sent a letter to Grand Slam organizers requesting a fairer distribution of revenues. However, he said that over the past year, the two sides have not come close to reaching an agreement.
“In other sports, if top athletes send an important letter, I truly believe they get not only a reply within 48 hours but also an invitation to a meeting or something similar,” the Italian stated.
Sinner acknowledged that players are disappointed with the approach of the French Open and hope for better prize money conditions at Wimbledon and the US Open. He added that he understands why talk of a boycott has emerged among players: it is an extreme measure arrived at after long and fruitless attempts.
The world No. 1 emphasized that the issue is not only about money. “It’s about respect. I believe we give much more than we receive, and this applies not only to the top players but to everyone without exception,” he said.
Earlier, top-ranked Sabalenka suggested she would consider a boycott if Grand Slam organizers do not increase the players’ share of revenue. Russia’s Daniil Medvedev said he would support his colleagues in this initiative. World No. 2 Elena Rybakina also confirmed her readiness to join a boycott provided the majority of players agree.
In April, French Open organizers announced a 9.5% increase in the prize fund, to €61.7 million. Winners in men’s and women’s singles will receive €2.8 million each, while runners-up will get €1.4 million. However, leading players consider this increase insufficient, noting that organizers allocate less than 15% of their revenue to prize money.