French Open won't budge on this year's prize money despite players' plans for media protest, tournament director says
Tennis stars have previously suggested that they could boycott a Grand Slam if they don't start receiving more compensation.
The 2026 French Open draw was released on May 21. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images) Franco Arland via Getty Images There won’t be a change in prize money for this year’s French Open , tournament director Amélie Mauresmo said on Thursday, according to The Associated Press , one day before some of tennis’ biggest stars plan to stage a media protest to express their frustration about the cut players are currently receiving at Grand Slams. Mauresmo was asked directly if there’s a chance prize money would change this year, per the AP.
Her response was reportedly clear. “No, we are not going to change anything,” the former Australian Open and Wimbledon champion said, according to the AP. “We are going to initiate discussions, and that is what everyone wants.
” Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournament On Friday at Roland-Garros, a meeting between tournament organizers, players and their representatives is expected to take place. Also that day, the customary pre-tournament media day will be held, only this time several players are reportedly intending to purposely limit their press availability in an act of defiance. It’s been reported that the protest will unfold in a symbolic 15-minute window, with Bounces reporting, according to The Athletic , that protest-participating players have now strategized to make themselves available for just 10 minutes of news conference questions.
The collective 15 minutes is significant, as it represents the 15% of revenue, on average, Grand Slams allocate to prize money, per The Guardian , which also reported Wednesday that, during the tournament, players are planning to only take part in contractually-obligated flash interviews with rights holders after matches. It’s reportedly thought that indulging the tournament in that regard will make players unsusceptible to fines. The players leading this labor movement are angling for players’ earnings to make up 22% of the Grand Slam prize pool, a share that’s akin to what they garner in joint ATP and WTA Tour events.