Tennis Stars Demand Increase in Prize Money at Grand Slam Tournaments.

Tennis Stars Demand Increase in Prize Money

According to The Sun: Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, the leading tennis players in the world, have joined other stars in demanding an increase in financial rewards within the ATP and WTA tours.

According to AP, Alcaraz and Sinner, along with Jack Draper, as well as tennis players Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and Iga Swiatek, are demanding a 6% increase in funding from the four largest tournaments of the season.

Novak Djokovic, who initiated the first letter at the beginning of the year, is not part of the group this time.

Currently, the prize pool stands at 16%, but players are demanding an increase to 22%, as well as contributions for pensions and additional medical and maternity benefits.

The prize fund for Grand Slam tournaments exceeded £325 million in 2025 and could grow to £370 million by 2030.

The United States Tennis Association (USTA), the organizer of the US Open, responded to the letter dated August 18. Interim co-CEO Brian Hainline and recently dismissed Stacey Allaster stated:

“As you know, we have always been willing to increase rewards for players – as evidenced by the 57 percent increase in the US Open prize pool over the last five years – especially when additional collaboration from players helps generate more revenue.”

“For instance, the significant increase in prize money to $90 million [£67 million] this year is due to adding another day to the main draw singles competition and the corresponding player contribution.”

USTA emphasized its willingness for “direct, honest, and transparent discussions with players to build a stronger future for the entire tennis ecosystem, including a healthier calendar, improved player consultation, and greater financial value for all participants.”

Alcaraz and Sabalenka earned over £5.5 million for winning the tournament last month — the highest amount for champions to date.

The first letter, sent in March, was initiated by Djokovic's lawsuit against the ATP, WTA, the International Tennis Federation (ITF), and the Integrity Agency.

As co-founder of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), Djokovic has sought increased funding for players and expressed dissatisfaction with the sport's management.

“USTA reported that the US Open earned more revenue from selling one specialty cocktail (£9.5 million) than it paid to men and women champions combined.”

Within two months, the WTA and ATP filed a motion to dismiss the case.

PTPA noted: “This is a necessary next step to ensure accountability from all parties. The goal is to expedite long-overdue reform across the entire tennis ecosystem.”

Tennis players, uniting around this initiative, aim to draw attention to critical issues in the sport, particularly the social and financial aspects affecting their careers. Increasing prize funds could be a step in the right direction to improve playing conditions and ensure fair treatment for athletes representing their countries on the world stage.