Djokovic, Sinner, Sabalenka among stars disappointed over French Open prize money
Top tennis players, both men and women, including Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, and Aryna Sabalenka have released a joint statement expressing deep disappointment over the prize money for the upcoming French Open, amid an ongoing dispute with Grand Slam organisers.
The clay-court event is set to begin later this month, and Roland Garros organisers have increased the total prize pool by only 10%, bringing it to €61.7 million ($72.1 million). This marks a rise of €5.3 million from last year.
However, players believe the increase falls far short of their expectations, given the tournament’s revenues. They also say their concerns, such as better representation, health support, and pensions—have not been addressed by officials.
“Players’ share of Roland Garros tournament revenue has declined from 15.5% in 2024 to a projected 14.9% in 2026,” the group said in a statement on Monday, as quoted by Yahoo Sports.
Play begins on May 24 at Roland Garros. The men’s and women’s singles champions will each receive €2.8 million, while the runners-up will earn €1.4 million. Semifinalists will take home €750,000, and first-round losers will receive €87,000. Men’s and women’s doubles winners will earn €600,000, while mixed doubles champions will receive €122,000.
The increase is significantly smaller than the 20% rise seen at last year’s US Open. Players argue that, as a percentage of total revenue, the prize fund is actually decreasing.
“According to tournament officials, Roland Garros generated €395 million in revenue in 2025, a 14% year-on-year increase, yet prize money rose by just 5.4%, reducing players’ share of revenue to 14.3%,” the statement said. “With estimated revenues exceeding €400 million for this year’s tournament, prize money as a percentage of revenue will likely remain below 15%, far short of the 22% players have requested to bring Grand Slams in line with ATP and WTA Combined 1000 events.”
The same group of players had previously signed a letter sent to the heads of the four Grand Slam tournaments last year, seeking higher prize money and a greater role in “decisions that directly impact us.”
According to Yahoo Sports, the communications firm that released the statement said it was issued on behalf of the original signatories to the initial letter, later clarifying that Novak Djokovic did not sign the new statement.
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