Tensions rise as Sinner refuses to dismiss Grand Slam boycott
Tension seems to be on the rise as talented Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner has refused to dismiss future Grand Slam boycott following a row over unfair share of revenue.
The boycott plan was mooted by s host of leading lawn tennis players who 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.
Sinner has now added his voice to the campaign by refuses to dismiss Grand Slam boycott in solidarity with other tennis players who are demanding a better welfare from authorities that be.
Read Also: Tennis players consider Grand Slam boycott over ‘unfair’ share of revenue
“It’s more about respect,” the 24-year-old explained ahead of the Italian Open.
“I think we give much more than what we are getting back, it’s not only for the top players – it’s for all of us players, from men’s and women’s side. The top 10 men and top 10 women, we wrote a letter and it’s not nice that after one year we are not even close to a conclusion for what we would like to have.
“Talking in other sports, if the top athletes, they send important letters, I truly believe that within 48 hours you have not only a response but you also have a meeting. Of course we talk about money. The most important is respect, and we just don’t feel it.
When he was asked about the prospect of a boycott, Sinner replied: “Of course, it’s tough to say, I cannot predict the future in a way. It’s the first time that I feel like the players are all in the same scenario and in the same point of view.
“I think it’s also right because without the players, they are not going to happen, any tournaments. In the same time we also know and we respect the tournaments because they make us bigger athletes”.
