Players, Organisers Clash Over Revenue and Reforms Ahead of French Open

A major showdown is brewing ahead of the 2026 French Open , with several of the world’s top tennis players challenging tournament organisers over what they call an unfair share of Grand Slam revenues. The dispute has escalated into boycott threats, planned media protests and renewed debate over player welfare, governance and financial transparency in professional tennis.

Leading stars including Aryna Sabalenka , Coco Gauff , Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic are among players demanding a larger portion of tournament earnings, arguing that Grand Slam events generate hundreds of millions of euros while athletes receive a comparatively small percentage in prize money.

The controversy intensified after Roland Garros announced a total prize pool of €61.7 million for the 2026 tournament, an increase of nearly 10% from last year. Singles champions will earn €2.8 million each. However, players claim the increase does not reflect the tournament’s rapidly growing commercial revenues.

According to estimates cited by player groups, the French Open generated nearly €395 million in revenue in 2025, a 14% rise year-on-year, while prize money increased by only around 5.4%. Players argue this effectively reduces their revenue share to roughly 14.3% , compared to the 22% share players reportedly receive at ATP and WTA combined 1000-level events.

The issue goes beyond prize money alone. Players are also pushing for better representation in decision-making, stronger pension systems, improved healthcare support and broader governance reforms across the sport. The movement has gained momentum with backing from both ATP and WTA players, while the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) has continued advocating for structural change.

In a symbolic protest, several players are reportedly planning to restrict pre-tournament media interactions at Roland Garros to only 15 minutes , reflecting the approximate percentage of revenue they say players currently receive. Some athletes have also threatened stronger action, including potential future boycotts of Grand Slam tournaments if negotiations fail.

The French Tennis Federation (FFT) has defended its financial structure, arguing that Roland Garros provides players with significant indirect earnings through sponsorship exposure, endorsements and appearance opportunities. Organisers also stressed that this year’s prize money increases were directed heavily toward lower-ranked and qualifying players.

Despite rising tensions, FFT officials confirmed discussions with player representatives are expected during the tournament, signalling that negotiations over tennis’ growing financial divide are far from over.