ROME : World number one Jannik Sinner said players were considering a boycott of the French Open because they do not feel respected by tournament organisers in the ongoing dispute over prize money distribution.
The row intensified this week after players said they were expected to receive less than 15% of tournament revenue despite Roland Garros announcing a 9.5% increase in prize money to 61.7 million euros ($72.19 million).
Leading players have demanded a 22% share, in line with ATP and WTA 1000-level events, with women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka and defending champion Coco Gauff backing the possibility of a boycott earlier this week.
“It’s more about respect,” Sinner told reporters ahead of the Italian Open in Rome on Thursday.
“I think we give much more than what we are getting back. It’s not only for the top players, it’s for all players.
“Of course, we talk about money. The most important thing is respect, and we just don’t feel it.”
Sinner said players had attempted to resolve the matter through discussions with Grand Slam organisers after top-10 ranked men and women jointly sent a letter last year seeking a greater share of tournament revenues.
“It’s not nice that after one year we are not even close to a conclusion of what we would like to have,” he said.
“So I do understand players talking about a boycott because somewhere we also need to start. Now it’s been a very long time with this.”
Twenty-four-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic also supported the players’ stance and praised Sabalenka for taking a leadership role in the discussions.
“I’m glad there is willingness from the leaders of our sport, like Sabalenka, to really step up and understand how tennis politics works,” Djokovic said.
“They understand what needs to be done not only for their own benefit and well-being, but for everyone.”
