Sabalenka: Players may boycott a Slam; mixed views ahead of Rome Open
Aryna Sabalenka warned that players could boycott a Grand Slam amid a dispute over prize money and governance. Several top players offered varied views, with some supporting potential collective action and others advocating continued negotiations. The piece notes Emma Raducanu’s Rome withdrawal and Wimbledon prize-money plans.
Why It Matters
The statements indicate growing player influence over major events and potential disruption to the Slam calendar if revenue shares and governance demands are not met.
Timeline
7 Events
Wimbledon prize money: next month announcement planned
The article notes that Wimbledon is set to announce its prize money next month, reflecting ongoing discussions about prize distributions across the majors.
Raducanu: not part of boycott; withdrawal from Rome
Emma Raducanu stated she would not be part of a boycott and emphasised love for the Slams. She subsequently withdrew from the Italian Open due to post-viral symptoms, but reaffirmed that players are entitled to push for what they deserve and that collaboration among men and women should continue in pursuit of fair terms.
Rybakina: would follow the majority on boycott
Elena Rybakina said she has not been involved in the campaign but would go with the majority if the majority decides to boycott. She indicated willingness to support the collective decision.
Swiatek: boycott would be extreme; prefers talks with majors
Iga Swiatek supported the goal of higher prize money but described a boycott as 'a bit extreme.' She urged proper communication and ongoing discussions with the governing bodies, expressing hope for meetings before Roland Garros to negotiate terms.
Gauff: potential boycott if players unite; calls for unity
Coco Gauff said she could '100%' see herself boycotting a Grand Slam if all players moved together. She argued that a collective approach would be necessary to drive change and that forming a union-like consensus could help push for fairer terms.
Sabalenka: boycott could happen; players' rights and share topic
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka told reporters in Rome that a Grand Slam boycott could occur as a way to fight for players' rights. She emphasized that the show is powered by players and argued that without them there would be no tournament or entertainment. She urged progress toward a decision that satisfies all parties and noted the importance of unity among female players to demand fair terms.
Monday remarks on French Open prize money
On Monday, a number of leading players expressed deep disappointment at the prize money at this year's French Open. The prize fund at Roland Garros had risen by about 9.5%, a gain players say falls short of the roughly 22% share of revenue they believe they deserve. The article notes continued discussions on whether players might push for changes and fairer distribution ahead of major events.