French Open players restrict media access as revenue dispute deepens
Leading players limit pre-tournament interviews to 15 minutes, citing unfair revenue splits and structural disconnects, while organisers prepare for critical talks with player agents.
Tensions between professional tennis players and Grand Slam organisers have intensified at the French Open, with several athletes restricting their participation in the traditional pre-tournament media day to 15 minutes and refusing additional interviews. The dispute centres on revenue sharing, with players arguing that the approximately 15 per cent return from Grand Slams is unfair compared to the 22 per cent redistributed by other top events. While players cited issues including pensions, scheduling, and a lack of dialogue, they stopped short of endorsing a full boycott. Novak Djokovic warned against further fragmentation in the sport, drawing parallels to divisions in golf, while tournament director Amelie Mauresmo expressed regret over the reduced media access.
Several players, including Taylor Fritz, insisted their grievances were not solely about financial gain but about fairness and structural issues. Andrey Rublev described a widening disconnect, stating that official mail from players often goes unanswered for months. World number one Aryna Sabalenka framed the debate as a struggle for lower-ranked players who suffer more, rather than just top stars. Djokovic clarified he was not personally involved in the planned 15-minute media action but aligned himself with the broader concerns regarding player rights and the health of the lower tiers of the sport.
Players adopted a more cautious tone regarding a full boycott, with Fritz and Iga Swiatek stopping short of endorsing drastic action. French Open organisers are expected to meet player agents on Friday to continue discussions over revenue sharing and player representation.
