Sinner criticizes Grand Slams for delaying player welfare and revenue demands
The Italian talked to The Guardian in the name of the best players of the game.
Jannik Sinner, portrait | © JB Autissier / PsNewz
Jannik Sinner has publicly criticized the four Grand Slam tournaments for their reluctance to move forward on proposals aimed at improving player welfare and increasing the share of tournament revenue dedicated to athletes. Sinner’s comments, made in a recent interview with The Guardian released on Tuesday, highlight a growing rift between the players and the sport’s most powerful events.
Sinner, who has served as a player representative in recent negotiations, expressed frustration after talks held at Roland Garros and Wimbledon stalled. “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 stated.
Sinner : “nothing stopping the slams from addressing player welfare benefits”
He specifically stressed that the implementation of crucial welfare benefits, such as pensions, healthcare, and maternity pay, should not be delayed. “Calendar and scheduling are important topics, but there is nothing stopping the slams from addressing player welfare benefits… right now.”
The financial dispute centers on the vast difference in revenue sharing between major tournaments. Players are demanding prize money that better reflects the Slams’ earnings, arguing that prize money currently represents approximately 22% of revenue on the global ATP and WTA Tour – a figure still lower than many major global sports – and only an estimated 12% to 15% at the Grand Slam tournaments.
The player demands formalized in March with a joint letter sent by the top-10 ranked men’s and women’s players to the four majors. However, the Grand Slams have reportedly cited ongoing litigation as an obstacle to substantive talks. This litigation refers to the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) filing an antitrust lawsuit against the ATP and WTA Tours in March.
Growing frustration
The players’ letter also outlined grievances over the lack of consultation on major calendar changes, including the introduction of Sunday starts at the Australian and US Opens in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Although initial and follow-up talks took place during the French Open and Wimbledon, player representatives reported growing frustration over the Grand Slams’ refusal to share requested financial details.
Sinner’s public critique is expected to prompt other high-profile players to speak out, with Carlos Alcaraz having previously stated that players are “fighting to have something better.” The unresolved issue remains a central point of contention as the tour culminates with the final ATP Masters 1000 event of the season in Paris.
