Tennis players pause protest after winning $30 million prize money increase
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Top men’s and women’s tennis players, including Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka, stopped their public campaign for more prize money and influence after reaching an agreement with Grand Slam organisers.
The players began campaigning last year, seeking greater financial rewards and a voice in tournament decisions. Organisers responded by agreeing to establish a Grand Slam Player Council, giving players a direct channel to negotiate with tournament officials. The agreement followed the conclusion of the US Open.
The players had asked Grand Slams to allocate 22 percent of tournament revenue to prize money, mirroring the standard at other major tournaments, and to create a welfare fund for players. They also wanted formal consultation on any tournament changes. The group estimates their collective lobbying efforts secured an additional $30 million in prize money beyond previous increases.
The US Open led the way by contributing $2 million to a player welfare fund this year, with expectations that other Grand Slams will follow suit. While Grand Slam organisers have not yet committed to the revenue-pegged prize money model, the newly formed Player Council will continue to pursue this goal. The players stated they may resume public campaigning if the council fails to maintain progress.
