Top 20 Players Unite: Call for Increased Grand Slam Prize Money in Latest Equality Battle

The leading tennis athletes worldwide have composed a letter requesting an increase in prize money for the four grand slam events.

This correspondence, put together by the players’ coalition, called for a meeting to discuss enhancing prize funds across these tournaments to guarantee fair treatment for all competitors.

As reported first by French news outlet L’Equipe, the letter garnered signatures from a significant number of players in both the men’s and women’s top 20 rankings.

The initiative aims to better accommodate players at all levels within the four tournaments, addressing the challenges many athletes face in earning a consistent income from the sport due to high expenses related to coaching, travel, accommodation, and a lack of reliable sponsorships.

Among the notable signatories are Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Coco Gauff, and Aryna Sabalenka.

World No. 11 Emma Navarro expressed her support for the initiative, citing “unfair pay ratios” as her motivation for signing the letter.

“I spoke with some of the other players about it and thought it was a wise decision to add my name,” Navarro shared with reporters at the Charleston Open.

“I believe there have been some notable disparities in pay ratios, but I’m not sure of the precise terminology,” she remarked.

“I think it’s crucial for us as players to unite and ensure that we are treated justly.”

The organisers of the US Open confirmed receipt of the letter and expressed a willingness to engage in open and honest discussions with the players.

Last year, the United States Tennis Association announced a record-breaking total of $120 million AUD in prize money for the grand slam event, which encompassed both earnings and payouts to help cover players’ expenses.

This funding marked a 15 per cent increase from the previous year, where $104 million was allocated.

At Wimbledon in the UK, the total prize money was also $104 million, exactly double what was provided to competitors in the 2014 tournament.

In 2014, first-round exit players received £27,000, while last season, that figure rose to £60,000 (approximately $125,000 AUD).

“I think this will benefit all players,” said Olympic gold medallist Zheng Qinwen.

“It’s not just the top athletes, but also those who labour hard throughout the year and rely on grand slam earnings to make a living,” Zheng added.

“We do our best in this endeavour, and let’s see how things unfold in the end.

“At least we are making the effort.”