Jannik Sinner has openly criticized the four Grand Slam tournaments for their hesitation to advance proposals aimed at enhancing player welfare and increasing the share of tournament revenue allocated to athletes. His remarks, featured in a recent interview with The Guardian, reveal a widening divide between players and the sport’s most prestigious events.
As a player representative in recent discussions, Sinner voiced his disappointment following stalled negotiations during Roland Garros and Wimbledon. He emphasized, “We had good conversations with the Grand Slams… so it was disappointing when they said they cannot act on our proposals until other issues are resolved.”
Sinner specifically pointed out that the implementation of essential welfare benefits—including pensions, healthcare, and maternity pay—should not be postponed. He remarked, “Calendar and scheduling are important topics, but there is nothing stopping the slams from addressing player welfare benefits… right now.”
The financial dispute underscores a significant gap in revenue distribution between major tournaments and players. Current prize money only comprises about 22% of revenue on the ATP and WTA Tours, which is still trailing behind other major global sports. At the Grand Slam events, this figure drops even further to an estimated 12% to 15%.
The player demands were formalized in March when top-10 ranked men’s and women’s players jointly addressed the four Grand Slams in a letter. However, the Grand Slam organizers have cited ongoing litigation as a hurdle to meaningful discussions. This litigation involves the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) filing an antitrust lawsuit against the ATP and WTA Tours.
Expressing growing frustration, the players’ letter also detailed concerns over a lack of consultation regarding significant changes to the tournament calendar, such as the newly introduced Sunday starts at the Australian and US Opens in 2024 and 2025. Even though initial discussions occurred during the French Open and Wimbledon, player representatives reported an escalating dissatisfaction regarding the Grand Slams’ reluctance to disclose requested financial details.
Sinner’s candid critique is likely to inspire other prominent players to voice their concerns, with Carlos Alcaraz previously noting that players are “fighting to have something better.” As this issue remains unresolved, it is poised to be a focal point as the ATP Masters 1000 season finale heads to Paris, highlighting the ongoing struggle for balance between tournament profits and player welfare.