Novak Djokovic recently weighed in on Aryna Sabalenka’s comments about players possibly boycotting Grand Slams over prize money issues. While the Belarusian faced overwhelming criticism about her stance, the 24-time Major winner was quick to show his appreciation for the WTA World No.1.
Earlier this week, top tennis stars across the ATP and WTA Tours expressed their disappointment over the 2026 French Open’s prize money pool in an official statement, asserting that players share of the revenue from the tournament ‘has declined from 15.5% in 2024 to 14.9% projected in 2026’. The statement also claimed that demands regarding better representation, health and pensions were not addressed.
In light of this, Aryna Sabalenka stated that players would consider boycotting Grand Slams in the future to have their demands met. While the Belarusian’s words drew plenty of criticism, Novak Djokovic recently showed his support for her, telling media during the Italian Open,
“The new generations are coming up. I’m glad that there is willingness from the leaders of our sport, like Sabalenka, to really step up and really understand the dynamics of how the tennis politics works and understand the nuances and really what needs to be done not only for her benefit and well-being, but for everyone. That’s a true leadership for me and I think she needs to maintain that. I salute that. That’s all I have to say about that.”
Outside of Djokovic, top men’s and women’s singles players like Jannik Sinner, Coco Gauff and Elena Rybakina also showed their agreement with Sabalenka’s stance.
Novak Djokovic weighs in on his involvement in recent talks amongst players
Over the course of his career, Novak Djokovic has been vocal in his attempts to unite players in order to demand systematic change from the associations and officials. During his Italian Open press conference, the Serb weighed in on his involvement in the recent talks amongst players, and highlighted that while he wasn’t at the centre of the discussion, he was fully supportive of his fellow tennis stars, saying,
“I am watching more from the side, to be honest. I haven’t been part of those meetings and conversations. But my position is very clear: I support the players and always will support stronger player position in the ecosystem, as I said.”
Novak Djokovic is scheduled to begin his campaign in Rome against Dino Prizmic. The 38-year-old was last seen in action at Indian Wells, where he made a round of 16 exit after losing to Jack Draper.
