World number one Aryna Sabalenka has called on the four Grand Slams to “come to the table” as top tennis players intensify demands for higher prize money and stronger welfare measures across the sport.
Sabalenka, joined by leading stars including Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Coco Gauff, and Casper Ruud, is urging Wimbledon, the Australian Open, the French Open, and the US Open to share a larger portion of their revenues with players. The group also seeks improved pension, healthcare, and maternity benefits — alongside greater say in decisions affecting gruelling schedules and late-night finishes.
“The Slams are the top of our sport,” Sabalenka told BBC Sport. “We just ask that they come to the table and find mutually beneficial solutions.”
The push comes after players felt earlier discussions with Grand Slam organisers had stalled, prompting them to go public. Their proposals — sent individually to each major — outline three main areas: fairer prize distribution, enhanced welfare support, and formal consultation rights.
Currently, Grand Slams are believed to allocate between 12.5% and 20% of their revenues to prize money, compared with around 40–50% in US professional team sports. Players are asking for a gradual increase over five years to reach parity with top ATP and WTA events, which sit near the 22% mark.
While tournament organisers insist prize money and player facilities have significantly improved — with Wimbledon, for example, doubling its prize fund since 2014 — players argue the financial structure still undervalues their role in generating global revenue.
Sabalenka’s message reflects growing unity among the sport’s elite. As negotiations continue, stars warn they’re prepared to escalate pressure if their calls for reform are ignored.
Discussion about this post