Disappointed Jannik Sinner slams Grand Slams for delaying prize money discussions
NewsTuesday, 28 October 2025 at 15:44
Jannik Sinner has built a reputation for being one of the calmest men on the ATP Tour, but he expressed annoyance with the Grand Slams for not engaging with the players.
Although top players received substantial awards, especially at the four Grand Slams, the revenue provided to the men and women entertaining the fans is lower than in several other worldwide sports.
Currently, about 12-15% of the revenue generated at Grand Slams is given to the players in prize money. That compares unfavorably to other sports like American Football, which provide the athletes with a deeper cut at significant events.
The share is about 22% for ATP and WTA tournaments outside Grand Slams. Although fairer to the players, the Grand Slams generating the most revenue by far means they would notice changes at those events most.
Earlier this year, the Top 10-ranked women and ten of the Top 11 men(at that time) wrote a letter to the four Grand Slams raising points they wanted changed, including a higher percentage of the revenue being given in prize money and other benefits.
Sinner updated the Guardian on that situation at the 2025 Paris Masters. Despite good initial discussions with the French Open and Wimbledon, the world No. 2 said nothing has been done since.
"We had good conversations with the Grand Slams at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, so it was disappointing when they said they cannot act on our proposals until other issues are resolved."
"Calendar and scheduling are important topics, but there is nothing stopping the slams from addressing player welfare benefits like pensions and healthcare right now."
The Italian stated that the players want to collaborate with the Grand Slams to find a good solution and end what he and others believe is the players not being rewarded enough for their efforts at the major tournaments.
"The Grand Slams are the biggest events and generate most of the revenue in tennis, so we are asking for a fair contribution to support all players, and for prize money that better reflects what these tournaments earn. We want to work together with the slams to find solutions that are good for everyone in tennis."
The Guardian's article mentioned that representatives from the ATP and WTA Tours were somewhat frustrated in a meeting at Wimbledon because the Grand Slams refused to share the requested financial details.
Players hope that Grand Slams will go further than just increasing prize money and contribute to pensions, healthcare, and maternity pay. That would reduce the strain on the ATP and WTA Tours, especially the women's tour, since it generates less revenue than the ATP.
Sinner recently surpassed $50 million in career prize money, meaning he has already ensured he will be financially comfortable regardless. That makes him trying to support lower-ranked players by getting changes at Grand Slams admirable.
The rivalry between him and Carlos Alcaraz will probably continue to be the most financially lucrative matchup in the coming years. They will meet again in January for an exhibition in Seoul, Korea.
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