French Open Players Protest Intensifies as Aryna Sabalenka Cuts Her Press Conference Short

Aryna Sabalenka reduced her media commitments ahead of the French Open on Friday as leading players continued their coordinated protest over prize money distribution at Grand Slam tournaments. The world number one took part in a shortened press appearance as part of a wider player-led action that has become one of the main talking points before the tournament.

The move formed part of the ongoing French Open players protest, with several top-ranked players restricting media interactions to 15 minutes. The symbolic limit reflects the players’ claim that Grand Slam competitors currently receive less than 15% of tournament revenue in prize money.

Earlier this month, a group of players called for a revised revenue-sharing structure. In a statement, they argued that the current figure should rise to 22% to align more closely with the combined standards seen at ATP and WTA 1000-level events.

Top Players Join Coordinated Action

Sabalenka’s appearance became one of the clearest examples of the protest on media day. The Belarusian first completed a short on-camera interview with the host broadcaster before speaking briefly to written media reporters.

The session drew attention as part of the broader discussion around the Aryna Sabalenka short press conference, which had been anticipated following her earlier criticism of prize money arrangements at Roland Garros.

Several other high-profile players adopted similar measures. Men’s world number one Jannik Sinner and four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek also reduced the length of their scheduled media sessions on Friday.

Novak Djokovic did not participate in the action but publicly backed the players’ broader concerns regarding financial distribution at the Grand Slams.

Sabalenka, who had previously suggested she could skip the tournament if the situation did not improve, said the protest was intended to deliver a united message rather than disrupt media operations.

“I'm here to talk to you because I have respect for you guys,” Sabalenka said.

“We just wanted to make our point and we are united - 15 minutes is better than zero.

“As I said a thousand times today, I have huge respect, but we know what's happening here, so thank you so much.”

The debate around player compensation is expected to remain a major issue throughout the French Open 2026, with discussions continuing between players and tournament organisers.