French Open stars stage protest as prize money dispute rumbles on

23 May 2026 • 12:27 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

French Open stars stage protest as prize money dispute rumbles on

  • Leading tennis players, including world No 1 Aryna Sabalenka, staged a coordinated protest at the French Open on Friday, limiting their media engagements to 15 minutes.
  • The protest highlights growing discontent among athletes regarding prize money distribution, player welfare, and a desire for a greater share of Grand Slam revenue.
  • The 15-minute media limit symbolises the approximate 15 per cent of revenue currently awarded as prize money by the French Open, with players aiming for 22 per cent.
  • Sabalenka abruptly ended her press conference, reiterating her stance on fighting for a fair percentage, while other players like Iga Swiatek and Jannik Sinner also supported the action.
  • French Open organisers expressed regret over the protest but confirmed a meeting with player representatives, with Wimbledon officials also monitoring the situation.

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