French Open 2026: How Players’ Boycott Morphed Into A Mild Protest

BusinessSportsMoneyFrench Open 2026: How Players’ Boycott Morphed Into A Mild ProtestByMerlisa Lawrence Corbett,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Merlisa Lawrence Corbett is an award-winning journalist and author.Follow AuthorMay 22, 2026, 06:53pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 21: (L-R) French Tennis Federation President Gilles Moretton, American player Coco Gauff, Tournament Director Amélie Mauresmo and Slalom Canoeist Tony Estanguet during the Drawing Ceremony prior to the 2026 French Open at Roland Garros on May 21, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)Getty ImagesWhat began as a threat to boycott the 2026 French Open has been reduced to a mild media protest. Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff are the most notable names linked to a media protest over Grand Slam prize money and revenue sharing. During the Italian Open, the three hinted at a possible boycott of the French Open or other Grand Slam tournaments. The hint hit headlines, created buzz, then fizzled. Players are not boycotting this year’s French Open. Unless they are injured or didn’t make the draw, ATP and WTA Tour players are in Paris and will show up for matches, collect checks and ranking points. However, they are waging a media protest, which includes limiting press interviews to 10 minutes. “It’s more about respect, you know? Because I think we give much more than what we are getting back,” said Sinner during a press conference at the Italian Open. “It’s not only for the top players; it’s for all of us players. Again, from men’s and women’s side, we are very, very equal."Players pushed ahead with the media protest after what they considered a lackluster response to a letter they sent to Grand Slam officials. PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 22: Jannik Sinner of Italy attends a press conference ah...