By Ashiadey Dotse
World number one Aryna Sabalenka top tennis players could boycott the French Open if organizers fail to increase prize money for players.
Speaking ahead of the Italian Open, Sabalenka said a boycott may become the only way for players to fight for what they believe is fair compensation.
She said many players feel they are not receiving a fair share of the revenue generated by Grand Slam tournaments despite being the main attraction of the sport.
The warning follows growing tensions between players and organizers of the French Open over prize money distribution.
Although this year’s French Open prize fund has increased by about 10% to 61.7 million euros, several top players say they are still expected to receive less than 15% of tournament revenue.
Players are demanding a share closer to the 22% reportedly received at ATP and WTA 1000 events.
World number four Coco Gauff also backed the possibility of a boycott if players unite behind the decision.
Gauff said the issue goes beyond the top-ranked stars and affects lower-ranked players who struggle financially despite competing at the highest level.
According to her, many players ranked between 50 and 200 in the world still live from paycheck to paycheck while Grand Slam tournaments continue to make huge profits.
Gauff also called for the formation of a players’ union to help athletes negotiate better conditions and stronger financial support.
Sabalenka expressed hope that ongoing discussions between players and organizers would lead to a solution acceptable to all sides before the French Open begins.
