Sabalenka: Players Would Boycott French Open Over Prize Money

World number one Aryna Sabalenka has warned that players would boycott the French Open if the tournament does not increase its prize money. Speaking at the Italian Open, the Belarusian star said the dispute with Roland Garros organizers over revenue sharing could escalate to a boycott.

This year's French Open offers a 9.5% increase in prize money to 61.7 million euros, but top players argue that this still represents less than 15% of tournament revenue-well short of the 22% they are demanding.

Sabalenka stated, "I think at some point we will boycott it... I feel like that's going to be the only way to fight for our rights."

Despite the tough talk, she expressed hope that ongoing negotiations would result in a fair agreement for all parties. The French Tennis Federation has been contacted for comment.

Roland Garros's prize pool lags behind other Grand Slams. The U.S. Open offered $90 million last year, Wimbledon paid out 53.5 million pounds, and the Australian Open awarded a record A$111.5 million this year.