Leading tennis players are set to intensify their campaign for a larger share of Grand Slam revenues at Wimbledon, despite the tournament announcing a record 20% increase in prize money for 2026.
After limiting pre-tournament media appearances at the French Open, players will now restrict both media weekend commitments and post-match press conferences during the first week of Wimbledon to 15 minutes, symbolising their claim that Grand Slam events allocate only around 15% of revenue to prize money.
While players welcomed Wimbledon’s prize fund increase to £64.2 million as a positive step, they argue it still falls short of their target share of tournament revenues. The dispute also extends to demands for contributions to player benefit funds and a greater role in tournament governance. Wimbledon organisers reject claims they have failed to engage, saying offers to discuss a player council were declined.
Negotiations are expected to continue during Wimbledon with officials from the French Open and US Open also involved in efforts to resolve the ongoing dispute.
Image credit: Ahmed
