French Open Players Limit Media Time in Prize Money Protest
The French Open is set to commence on Sunday, 24 May. Leading tennis players worldwide intend to restrict their pre-tournament media engagements to 15 minutes as a form of protest against the current prize money distribution.
As initially reported by , players may leave press conferences or broadcast interviews at Roland Garros on Friday and Saturday once the 15-minute limit is reached.
This 15-minute restriction symbolizes the approximately 15% of revenue that Grand Slam tournaments allocate to prize money. The plan has been communicated to most of the top 200 singles players, though player representatives acknowledge that individuals may choose their own approach.
Top-10 male and female players are advocating for a higher share of the revenue generated by the four Grand Slam events, as well as contributions toward benefits and increased involvement in decisions such as scheduling.
While this year's French Open prize money has risen by 9.5%, previous increases were notably higher: 20% at last year's US Open and nearly 16% at the Australian Open in January.
Players are expected to focus their interview limitations on major broadcast partners like TNT Sports, aiming to exert pressure on the French Tennis Federation's (FFT) key commercial affiliates.
It remains undecided whether this "work to rule" approach will continue once the main draw begins in Paris on Sunday.
The FFT issued a statement expressing regret over the players' decision and affirmed its readiness to engage in direct and constructive dialogue regarding governance matters.
Players' Demands and Perspectives
Top-10 players seek increased prize money and greater influence. Some voices suggest potential future boycotts.
"Players will boycott a Slam 'at some point'" - Sabalenka
Background of the Campaign
The campaign, initiated in late 2025, is led by former WTA chairman and CEO Larry Scott. Scott is scheduled to be in Paris on Friday to meet with French Open tournament director Amelie Mauresmo and FFT president Gilles Moretton.
Additional meetings with representatives from the All England Club (AELTC) and the US Tennis Association are planned during the fortnight.
The players' actions aim to apply pressure on the AELTC, with Wimbledon prize money announcements expected in about three weeks.
Last year, Wimbledon increased its prize fund by 7% to £53.5 million, doubling the amount offered a decade ago. However, players observe the substantial revenues generated by Grand Slams and feel entitled to a larger portion.
The AELTC's financial report for the year ending July 2025 showed revenue of £427 million and a profit after tax of £39.7 million.
Players have requested that Grand Slams allocate 22% of their revenue to prize money by 2030. They also seek tens of millions of dollars in contributions toward pension, healthcare, and maternity benefits, along with broader consultation on scheduling and other key decisions.
At the Italian Open this month, world number one Aryna Sabalenka stated she believes players will "at some point" boycott a major tournament.
World number three Iga Swiatek described such a boycott as "a bit extreme," while defending French Open champion Coco Gauff expressed support for strike action
"if everyone were to move as one and collaborate".
Men's world number one Jannik Sinner also voiced concerns that players are not receiving the respect they deserve regarding prize money at major events.
FFT Response
On Wednesday, the FFT released a statement:
"We regret the players' decision, which impacts all of the tournament's stakeholders: the media, broadcasters, the FFT and the entire tennis community, all of whom follow each edition of Roland Garros with great enthusiasm.
"The French Tennis Federation recognises the importance of the players' contribution to the tournament's success, and wishes to maintain close ties with them."
The French Open will run from 24 May to 7 June.
includes player perspectives on prize money and respect in the sport.
For example, Jannik Sinner stated:
"Players not getting the respect they deserve"
