Jannik Sinner has accused the grand slam tournaments of showing a lack of respect towards players amid the ongoing prize money dispute. The world No. 1 did not rule out the possibility of participating in a player boycott of major events, emphasizing that the issue extends beyond financial compensation.
Disrespect and Disparity
“It’s more about respect, you know?” Sinner said. “Because I think we give much more than what we are getting back. It’s not only for the top players; it’s for all of us players. Again, from men’s and women’s side, we are very, very equal. I think the top 10 men, top 10 women, we wrote a letter. It’s not nice that after one year we are not even close to the conclusion of what we would like to have.”
The Italian star compared tennis to other sports, stating that if top athletes in other disciplines sent important letters, they would receive a response and a meeting within 48 hours. “Of course, we talk about money. The most important is respect, and we just don’t feel it,” he added.
Growing Player Unrest
Sinner’s comments follow those of women’s No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, who suggested on Tuesday that players would boycott grand slam tournaments in the future due to the prize money dispute. Coco Gauff has also expressed agreement. Last March, the top 10 men’s and women’s players sent a letter to the grand slam tournaments requesting meetings to discuss a greater share of revenues, increased welfare contributions, and more cooperation between the slams and players.
When asked if he would be willing to skip a significant event, Sinner said: “I cannot predict the future in a way. But in the same time I also believe that somewhere we need to start. I understand other players not playing. But yeah, let’s see. Definitely I can see all the press conferences, and I’m definitely not the only one. It’s the first time that I feel like the players are all in the same scenario and in the same point of view.”
Djokovic’s Support
Novak Djokovic, who has long been an advocate for player unity through his roles as ATP Player Council president and co-founder of the Professional Tennis Players’ Association (PTPA), said he has not been directly involved in this latest initiative but fully supports the players from the sidelines. “I’ve said it many times. I don’t need to talk about that too long. Players know that they’ll always have my support, and that’s all. The new generations are coming up. I’m glad that there is willingness from the leaders of our sport, like Sabalenka, to really step up and really understand the dynamics of how the tennis politics works and understand the nuances and really what needs to be done not only for her benefit and wellbeing, but for everyone. That’s a true leadership for me and I think she needs to maintain that. I salute that.”
The dispute highlights growing tensions between players and tournament organizers, with the possibility of a boycott looming as players demand greater respect and a fairer share of revenues.
