The world’s leading tennis players are preparing a coordinated media protest ahead of the French Open as tensions grow over prize money, welfare and their role in decision-making within the sport.
Players are expected to limit their media engagements to 15 minutes during pre-tournament activities at Roland Garros on Friday and Saturday, in a move designed to highlight what they see as the small share of Grand Slam revenue allocated to competitors.
The proposed time limit reflects the estimated 15 per cent of tournament revenue currently directed toward prize money across the four Grand Slams. According to reports first published by The Guardian, some players could walk out of press conferences and broadcast interviews once the 15-minute mark is reached.
The strategy has reportedly been shared with most of the top 200 singles players, although participation remains voluntary.
The protest marks the latest stage in a campaign led by elite players seeking a greater share of revenues generated by tennis’ biggest events.
Beyond prize money, players are also pushing for improved pension contributions, healthcare and maternity support, as well as greater involvement in scheduling and governance decisions.
ALSO READ: French Open prize money rises by 9.5%
This year’s French Open prize money has risen by 9.5 per cent, but players have pointed to bigger increases at other Grand Slams, including last year’s US Open and the 2026 Australian Open.
Broadcast partners are also expected to feel the impact of the action, with interviews involving networks such as TNT Sports likely to be shortened as players attempt to increase pressure on organisers and commercial stakeholders.
It remains unclear whether the planned “work to rule” will continue once the tournament proper begins in Paris on Sunday.
The French Tennis Federation acknowledged the planned action in a statement, saying it “regretted” the players’ decision while insisting it remained open to discussions.
The campaign has been spearheaded by former WTA chairman and chief executive Larry Scott, who is expected to hold talks in Paris with French Open tournament director Amelie Mauresmo and FFT president Gilles Moretton.
Further meetings are scheduled with officials from the All England Club and the US Tennis Association during the coming weeks, with Wimbledon prize money announcements still pending.
Players have reportedly asked the Grand Slams to increase prize money allocations to 22 per cent of tournament revenues by 2030.
The debate has continued to gather momentum following comments from several leading stars. World number one Aryna Sabalenka recently said players would “at some point” boycott a major tournament, while Coco Gauff backed collective action if players acted together. Iga Swiatek described a boycott as “a bit extreme”, while Jannik Sinner questioned whether players were receiving enough respect regarding financial rewards at the majors.
The French Open runs from 24 May to 7 June, but attention before the opening serve is already shifting toward a growing power struggle between players and the sport’s governing bodies.
