Aryna Sabalenka threatens 'boycott' of tennis grand slams

Key Points:

• Aryna Sabalenka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, warned that tennis players may boycott Grand Slam tournaments if they do not receive a higher percentage of prize money, emphasizing that players are central to the sport's entertainment and success.
• Sabalenka and other top players, including Jannik Sinner, Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, and Jasmine Paolini, expressed deep disappointment over the French Open's prize money distribution, noting that players' share of tournament revenue is projected to decline from 15.5% in 2024 to 14.9% in 2026 despite an overall prize increase.
• The players are demanding better representation, improved health options, and pension plans from the four Grand Slam tournaments, criticizing the lack of player consultation and investment in player welfare compared to other major sports.
• While some players support a boycott if it becomes the majority consensus, Iga Swiatek suggested that better communication between players and governing bodies is preferable and called a boycott "a bit extreme."
• The ongoing dispute follows previous efforts by players to gain more prize money and influence over decisions affecting them, amid concerns over the demanding WTA schedule requiring participation in numerous mandatory events.