The ongoing conflict within the tennis world has escalated, with leading players sending a second series of letters to the four Grand Slams demanding significant reforms. This follows an initial letter sent in March, signed by almost all top-ranked players, except for Novak Djokovic, who was a signatory to the first but not the second. The latest correspondence, reviewed by The Athletic, includes players like Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, Iga Świątek, Carlos Alcaraz, and Jannik Sinner, demonstrating a united front among the sport's elite. New additions to this second letter reflect players whose rankings have improved, further solidifying the breadth of player support for reform.
The players' core demands center on three key areas. These concerns were echoed by world No. 7 Jessica Pegula, who voiced her disapproval of the U.S. Open's extended schedule, citing concerns about player well-being and the additional strain on those competing in tournaments leading up to the Grand Slam. While the Australian Open stated that players were consulted about the Sunday start and that the revenue generated went to player compensation, the players remain unconvinced that their perspectives are being adequately considered.
This concerted player effort is further fueled by the involvement of Larry Scott, the former WTA chief executive, who was hired to lobby the Grand Slams on the players' behalf. Meetings held during the French Open and Wimbledon, attended by leading players and Scott, were described as productive in terms of laying out player concerns, but the overall resolution seems to be far from reached.
The Grand Slams' response, while indicating willingness for dialogue, largely reiterated their vision for a more streamlined “Premium Tour” with fewer elite events. This plan, proposed to the ATP and WTA, is viewed by the players as insufficient to address their immediate concerns. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing antitrust lawsuit filed by the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), adding another layer to this complex dispute. While Djokovic isn't actively involved in this lawsuit, it highlights the underlying tension between players and the governing bodies.
Statements from the Grand Slams, including the USTA, All England Club, and FFT, expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue and resolve the issues, often citing the considerable investment made in increased prize money and growth of the sport as evidence of their commitment. However, a source close to the players expressed disappointment with the responses received, emphasizing the players' desire for a meaningful voice in decisions that directly impact their careers and well-being.
The impasse continues, with no formal talks scheduled. The next major development will likely be the Australian Open's prize money announcement for 2026, setting the stage for another year of potentially contentious discussions off the court, mirroring the intensity of the matches played on it.
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Originally published at: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6657340/2025/09/24/tennis-reform-letter-grand-slams/
