Alexander Zverev Calls for Grand Slam Talks Over Prize Money Dispute
World No. 2 Alexander Zverev is pushing for high-level discussions with the four Grand Slam tournaments following a letter signed by 20 top ATP and WTA players demanding a fairer share of prize money.
The letter, signed by stars including Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka, and Stefanos Tsitsipas, was addressed to tournament heads Craig Tiley (Australian Open), Stephane Morel (French Open), Sally Bolton (Wimbledon), and Lew Sherr (US Open). It requests a larger percentage of tournament revenue for players and increased support for player welfare programs.
Zverev acknowledged the players aren’t expecting a 50/50 revenue split but highlighted the current share sits at just 7–8% for both men’s and women’s sides. “It’s not about equal split, but a fairer one,” he said during a press conference ahead of the Monte-Carlo Masters. “We’re hoping to get a seat at the table and work towards a better solution.”
Zverev suggested that a few selected representatives from the ATP and WTA be chosen to meet directly with Grand Slam officials to negotiate improvements. He emphasized collaboration over confrontation, citing his strong relationships with tournament organizers.
His sentiments were echoed by Stefanos Tsitsipas, currently ranked No. 8, who criticized the current prize money structure: “It’s clearly not where it should be. I’m surprised this hasn’t been seriously addressed years ago.”
Tsitsipas called for unity among players, saying the sport’s individual nature often prevents collective action: “It’s time we come together to push for what’s fair.”
The letter reportedly seeks an in-person meeting during the upcoming Madrid Open. The growing call for reform is being driven by many of the sport’s biggest names, including Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Taylor Fritz, Coco Gauff, Iga Swiatek, and Jessica Pegula, among others.
While Grand Slam events continue to bring in significant revenues, players argue their earnings remain disproportionate. The current movement marks one of the most coordinated player efforts to influence the business side of tennis in recent years.
