Top tennis stars, including world number ones Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka, have called off their planned media protest at Wimbledon after holding what their representatives described as constructive talks with tournament organisers.
The players had intended to limit their press conferences to 15 minutes during the opening week of the tournament, extending a similar action taken during pre-tournament media duties at the French Open in May.
The dispute centred on prize money distribution, with players arguing that they currently receive about 15 per cent of Grand Slam revenues and seeking an increase to 22 per cent.
Wimbledon recently announced a 20 per cent rise in prize money, a move welcomed by the players, although they maintained that the overall share of tournament revenues remained below their expectations.
In a statement issued on the opening day of the championships, player representatives confirmed that normal media duties would resume.
“Players have confirmed they will resume normal tournament media duties,” the statement read, adding that the decision followed productive discussions and Wimbledon’s commitment to return with specific proposals.
It noted, however, that key issues remain unresolved and that players would continue talks with Wimbledon and the other Grand Slam tournaments.
Chief Executive of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Sally Bolton, welcomed the decision, saying both sides had agreed to maintain positive dialogue.
“I think it’s great news that we and they can now just concentrate on the championships and on the tennis,” she said.
This year’s Wimbledon singles champions will earn £3.6 million ($4.76 million), up from the £3 million received by the 2025 winners, Iga Świątek and Sinner.
Sabalenka had previously expressed hope that the matter could be resolved permanently, saying she wanted all parties to reach an agreement that would satisfy everyone and avoid similar disputes in the future.
