Tennis players consider Grand Slam boycott over ‘unfair’ share of revenue

A host of leading lawn tennis players are actively discussing the potential boycott of future Grand Slam tournaments demanding a fair share of revenue and improved player benefits.

Led by Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauf, the players are demanding a more equitable and standardized revenue share, similar to WTA/ATP 1000 events.

The players argue that the prize money increases does not match the massive revenues generated by the Grand Slams, with the share at Rolland Garros expected to drop to 14% by 2026.

Besides the higher pay, the players are also seeking better health benefits and retirement plans, with calls for unionization to facilitate collective bargaining.

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World’s no 1 ranked tennis player, Sabalenka has told those who care to listen that a boycott by players will occur at some point if they are not paid more percentage of what they deserve at Grand Slams.

The Belarusian tennis star said: “Without us there wouldn’t be a tournament and there wouldn’t be that entertainment. I feel like definitely we deserve to be paid more percentage,” Sabalenka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, said at the Italian Open on Tuesday.

“I think at some point we will boycott it. I feel like that’s going to be the only way to fight for our rights.” the 28-year-old added.