Sinner demands ‘respect’ from Grand Slams in prize money row

ROME: World number one Jannik Sinner said on Thursday that Grand Slam tournaments need to show players more respect as a dispute over prize money and player benefits continues, though he did not go as far as calling for an immediate boycott of the sport’s biggest events.

Speaking to reporters at the Italian Open, Sinner said leading players were still far from reaching an understanding with the organisers of Wimbledon, the French Open, the US Open and the Australian Open.

Last year, nearly all top players signed two letters addressed to the heads of the four Grand Slam tournaments. In those letters, they sought higher prize money, contributions to a player welfare fund aimed at improving retirement and maternity benefits, and a greater role in decisions affecting players.

The letters also called for players to receive a 22-percent share of tournament revenue, a level that would match the nine combined 1000-level events overseen by the ATP men’s tour and the WTA women’s tour.

“It’s more about respect. Because I think we give much more than we are getting back. It’s not only for the top players; it’s for all of us players,” Sinner said.

He said the lack of progress after a year had added to players’ frustration. “It’s not nice that after one year we are not even close to conclusion of what we would like to have.”

His remarks came days after women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka said on Monday that she would be prepared to boycott the Grand Slams if that was needed to pressure organisers.

The latest comments also followed a statement from players criticising last month’s French Open announcement of a 9.5pc increase in prize money. According to that statement, tournament revenue rose by 14pc last year, but the total prize fund increased by only 5.4pc, bringing the players’ share down to 14.3pc.

Sinner suggested he could understand why some players were discussing stronger action, including the possibility of staying away from Grand Slam events in the future. “Of course, we talk about money, but the most important is respect, and we just don’t feel it. I think we players, we are a bit disappointed also of the outcome of Roland Garros, for example. So let’s see what’s coming,” added Sinner. “So I do understand players talking about boycott because it’s somewhere we also need to start. Now it has been a very long time with this. Then we see in the future.”

Italian Open campaign

Sinner is due to start his Italian Open campaign on Saturday, when he will face either Sebastian Ofner or Alex Michelsen.

The Italian, who has won four Grand Slam titles, is carrying a 23-match winning streak into the tournament. He is also chasing a record-extending sixth straight Masters 1000 title in front of home supporters in Rome.

With rival Carlos Alcaraz injured, Sinner has been described as the clear favourite for the singles title.