French Open prize money dispute: Raducanu prioritizes glory over cash
Translated from Chinese and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.
At a glance
- Tennis stars Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka have voiced concerns over low prize money increases at the French Open, with Sabalenka suggesting a potential boycott.
- British player Emma Raducanu acknowledged that prize money for tennis players is relatively low compared to other sports.
- However, Raducanu stated her primary focus is on regaining peak form and values the prestige and history of Grand Slam tournaments over financial rewards.
The upcoming 2026 French Open is already generating controversy as players express dissatisfaction with the modest prize money increases. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy has called for Grand Slam tournaments to "respect players' demands," while Aryna Sabalenka, the current WTA world No. 1 from Belarus, has gone further, suggesting players might boycott the major tournaments to "defend their rights."
respect players' demands
These calls stem from player criticism that the current prize money distribution only amounts to 15% of the tournament's total revenue, with players advocating for an increase to 22%.
players might boycott the major tournaments to defend their rights
British player Emma Raducanu acknowledged the financial disparity, stating, "I am certainly aware that compared to other sports, the prize money for tennis players is indeed relatively low." However, she emphasized her personal priorities.
I am certainly aware that compared to other sports, the prize money for tennis players is indeed relatively low.
"My focus is entirely on finding my best competitive form and adjusting my condition," Raducanu told reporters. "For me, competing in Grand Slam tournaments is absolutely not just about the prize money. I value the prestige and the long history of these events the most. Being able to return to the Grand Slam stage again, I am very grateful."
My focus is entirely on finding my best competitive form and adjusting my condition. For me, competing in Grand Slam tournaments is absolutely not just about the prize money. I value the prestige and the long history of these events the most. Being able to return to the Grand Slam stage again, I am very grateful.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.