Jannik Sinner has spoken out on the growing debate surrounding Grand Slam prize money, expressing disappointment over the French Open’s revised prize pool. Roland Garros organisers increased the total purse by 10 per cent to €61.7 million, but players believe the rise does not reflect the tournament’s revenues.
Beyond prize money, players have also raised concerns over issues such as better representation, health support and pension benefits. Sinner said the issue was more about respect than money, stressing that players feel they give far more than they receive in return.
The World No.1 revealed that the top men’s and women’s players had written a joint letter, but were disappointed by the lack of response and progress from tennis authorities.
“It’s more about respect. I think we are giving much more than what we are getting back. It’s not only about the top players, it’s for all players, both on the men’s and women’s side, and we are very equal in that regard,” Sinner said in the press conference at the Italian Open.
“The top 10 men and top 10 women wrote a letter, and it’s disappointing that after one year we are still nowhere close to a conclusion on what we would like to have. In other sports, if the top athletes send an important letter, I truly believe that within 48 hours you not only get a response, but also a meeting,” Sinner said.
“Of course, people talk about money, but the most important thing is respect, and right now we just don’t feel it. I think the players are also disappointed with the outcome at Roland Garros, for example,” Sinner said.
SINNER KEEPS HIS FINGERS CROSSED
Sinner remained hopeful that prize money discussions would improve ahead of Wimbledon and the US Open. However, he admitted he understood why some players were considering a boycott, saying players eventually needed to take a stand after prolonged frustration over the issue. Earlier, Aryna Sabalenka had also threatened to boycott the French Open if prize money was not increased.
“We will see what happens next. In the coming weeks, we will know the prize money for Wimbledon, and we truly hope it will be better, and then of course there’s the US Open.
“So I do understand players talking about a boycott because, at some point, we also need to take a stand. This has been going on for a very long time, and we’ll see what happens in the future,” Sinner added.
The French Open is scheduled to get underway on May 24. The men’s and women’s singles champions will each pocket €2.8 million, while the runners-up are set to receive €1.4 million. Losing semifinalists will earn €750,000, with first-round exits guaranteed €87,000. In doubles, the men’s and women’s champions will collect €600,000, while the mixed doubles winning pair will take home €122,000.
However, the overall hike has drawn criticism from players, especially as it is far lower than the 20 percent increase introduced at last year’s US Open. Several players believe the prize pool, when measured against the tournament’s overall revenue, is effectively shrinking.
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