Aryna Sabalenka Predicts Grand Slam Boycott Over Revenue Share Dispute

World number one Aryna Sabalenka said a boycott of grand slam tournaments may become necessary if the events do not increase the share of revenues paid to players. In a press conference ahead of her opening match at the Italian Open, Sabalenka addressed the ongoing pay dispute.

She stated that players have been attempting to secure a greater revenue share from the grand slam tournaments. “I think at some point we will boycott it, yeah,” she said. ” The comment marks an escalation in discussions that had previously consisted of polite letters and public statements.

Over a year ago, in March 2025, the players sent their first letter to the grand slam tournaments. The requests focused on the grand slams offering a greater percentage of their revenues to the players, contributions to player welfare initiatives such as pension funds, and closer consultation through a grand slam player council.

To the frustration of the player group, the grand slams have still not issued substantial responses to the first two requests. The four major tournaments generate significant revenue but have not engaged in detailed talks on revenue distribution. Players have argued that current prize money and benefits do not reflect the full commercial value of the events.

Sabalenka’s remarks highlight growing dissatisfaction among top players. The world No 1 described the situation as one that could require direct action to resolve. The Italian Open appearance provided the setting for her to raise the issue publicly.

The players continue to seek both financial adjustments and structural changes in how decisions are made. Whether the grand slams will respond with concrete proposals remains to be seen. A boycott would represent a significant disruption to the sport’s most prestigious events.