The top 20 men’s and women’s players have sent a letter to the four Grand Slam tournaments urging them to increase prize money.
The letter, first reported by French newspaper L’Equipe, requests a meeting to discuss players receiving a larger share of the revenue generated by the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open.
World number 11 Emma Navarro highlighted “unfair pay ratios” as a reason for supporting the letter. “I talked a little bit to the other players about it and felt like it was a good idea to sign,” said the 23-year-old American.
“I think it’s a good cause to come together as players and make sure we’re getting treated fairly.”
At Wimbledon last year, prize money amounted to £50 million, exactly double what was offered in 2014.
Over the past decade, the amount awarded to first-round losers has increased from £27,000 to £60,000.
However, players continue to point out the massive revenues generated by the Grand Slams and believe they deserve a larger share.
In the year leading up to July 2023, the All England Club (AELTC) reported a turnover of £380 million.
After deducting costs, the operating profit was just under £54 million. Almost £49 million of this surplus was allocated to the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), as the AELTC has committed to paying the governing body 90% of its annual surplus until 2053.
Costs for the tournament include prize money, employing over 8,000 seasonal staff, site development, and support for other grass-court events.
Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen stated that increasing prize money would be especially beneficial for lower-ranked players, who often struggle financially throughout the year.
“I think that’s going to benefit all the players, not only the top players, especially those who work hard during the year and need to get paid from the Grand Slams to survive,” added the Chinese world number eight.
“We try to do what we can, and then let’s see what the gods bring to us. But at least we’re trying.”
