The world’s top 20 male and female tennis players have united to call for an increase in prize money at the sport’s four Grand Slam tournaments, urging for a fairer distribution of the immense revenue generated by these events.
The collective request, first reported by French newspaper L’Equipe, was outlined in a letter to the organizers of the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. The letter seeks a meeting to discuss what players describe as “unfair pay ratios” in the current distribution system.
World number 11 Emma Navarro voiced her support for the initiative, emphasizing the need for unity among players. “I think it’s a good cause to come together as players and make sure we’re getting treated fairly,” the 23-year-old American stated.
Despite notable increases in prize money over the years—Wimbledon’s total purse doubled to £50m in 2023 compared to 2014—players argue that the profits shared with them remain disproportionate to the tournaments’ substantial revenues.
In the same year, the All England Club reported a turnover of £380m, with £49m of its operating profit allocated to the LTA as part of a long-standing agreement.
Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen highlighted how this issue affects lower-ranked players, many of whom struggle financially outside the major tournaments.
“I think that’s going to benefit all the players, not only the top players, especially those that work hard during the year and need to get paid from the Grand Slams and have to survive,” said the Chinese world number eight.
