Tennis is at a turning point. The long-standing issue of prize money distribution in Grand Slam events has escalated, with Novak Djokovic’s Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) taking legal action against the ATP, WTA, ITF, and ITIA over what they describe as an unfair financial model.
Now, according to a report from L’ÉQUIPE, the world’s top 20 male and female players—including rising American star Coco Gauff—have joined forces to demand a significant increase in prize money from the four Grand Slam tournaments: the Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open.
Tennis Players Want Their Fair Share
Despite tennis generating billions in revenue, players argue that they receive only a fraction of the profits compared to other major sports. The NBA, for instance, allocates 50% of total revenue to its athletes. By contrast, Roland Garros earned approximately $371 million in 2024, yet the total prize pool stood at just $58.7 million—less than 16% of its revenue.
Faced with mounting pressure, Grand Slam organizers have increased prize money in recent years. In 2024, men’s and women’s singles champions saw their earnings rise by 54%, while semi-finalists earned 60% more, and even first-round winners enjoyed a 40% boost. Roland Garros also increased its prize pool by 7.82%, bringing the singles winner’s prize to $2.63 million—nearly four times the amount awarded in 2000.
But for many players, these increases are not enough.
🚨 According to L’ÉQUIPE, the world’s top 20 ATP and WTA players have written to Grand Slam organizers demanding a fairer share of tournament revenue.
Coco Gauff Steps Up as a Leader for Change
One of the most vocal advocates for financial fairness in tennis is Coco Gauff. The 21-year-old Grand Slam champion and entrepreneur has been an outspoken supporter of gender pay equality and is now pushing for a broader financial restructuring within the sport.
“If we compare tennis to other sports, we can see there’s still a long way to go,” Gauff said. “Women’s prize money should be equal to the men’s across all tournaments, but it’s not just about that—it’s about how we, as players, are compensated in general.”
Even rising American star Emma Navarro, currently competing at the Charleston Open, confirmed her support for the movement.
“I felt like it was a good idea to sign,” said Navarro, the world No. 11. “I think there have been unfair pay ratios in the past, and it’s important that we come together as players to ensure we’re treated fairly.”
World No. 8 Zheng Qinwen also emphasized that a more balanced financial structure would help players across all levels.
“This isn’t just about the top players. It’s about those who work hard all year and depend on Grand Slam earnings to sustain their careers.”
Djokovic and the PTPA Take Legal Action
In addition to the players’ collective demand for change, Djokovic’s PTPA has taken legal action against tennis’ governing bodies, filing a lawsuit in a New York court on March 18. The suit alleges that the ATP, WTA, ITF, and ITIA operate as a cartel, controlling players’ pay and working conditions in a way that limits financial fairness and autonomy.
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka echoed Gauff’s sentiments, stating:
“Players deserve a bigger percentage of what the Grand Slams earn. Compared to other sports, tennis still has a long way to go.”
While the outcome of this legal battle remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the fight for financial reform in tennis has reached a new level. With Gauff, Djokovic, and other top players leading the charge, the pressure is mounting on Grand Slam organizers to rethink how revenue is shared—and finally give players a fair slice of the pie.
What’s your take? Should Grand Slam tournaments increase prize money to match other major sports?
