Aryna Sabalenka has been one of the most vocal figures pushing for fairer financial distribution across tennis’ biggest stages. But ahead of the AO, even as the tournament rolled out a record-breaking pay rise for 2026, the world number one made it clear that the conversation is far from over. Even Coco Gauff had a similar tone on this topic.

Over the past year, Sabalenka has joined a collective movement led by top ATP and WTA players demanding greater transparency and improved revenue sharing from the four Grand Slam tournaments. In March, the players sent a formal letter to the organizers of all four Slams. Their message was simple: increase prize money, invest in player benefit programs (including maternity support), and give athletes a meaningful seat at the decision-making table.

A second letter followed in July, signaling a rising urgency. After all these complaints, this year’s AO introduced the largest purse in history: 111.5 million AUD (74.9 million USD), making a 16% jump from 2005. The 2026 AO champion will get 2.79 million USD (19% hike), and the runners-up will get 1.44 million USD. But when Aryna Sabalenka was asked to share her thoughts about AO’s response, she maintained a firm but measured stance: “I think we can always do better.

“I think all of the Slams are trying to work together with us and come to a conclusion, and I hope one day we’ll get to a happy place for everyone.”

But when pressed on how the Australian Open could improve further, Sabalenka’s response was accompanied by a smile: “Well, I mean, can I pass?”

The refusal wasn’t perhaps dismissive. It was strategic. Aryna Sabalenka, who has been at the center of delicate negotiations, likely understands that public commentary could complicate ongoing discussions between players and governing bodies.

On the other hand, Coco Gauff has also opened up on this topic during her press conference. Last year, the American highlighted why more money for all players from the four Grand Slams would be for the long-term benefit of tennis.

“From my understanding, they obviously increased the prize money this year. But the percentage, I think, is still of revenue comparison is still not where we would like it… I think there are still further conversations that have to be had, not just with AO, but with all the slams,” Gauff remarked.

The 21-year-old also explained how the player representatives have been working hard on this subject. Having said that, she also gave a gentle nod to the progress, but just like Sabalenka, even Gauff feels there are still miles to go.

ATP and WTA stars raised concerns over Grand Slam prize money structure

Last year, Sabalenka has urged the Grand Slams to “come to the table” as pressure grows from the game’s biggest names over prize money and player welfare.

She was among the top 20 men’s and women’s players who have called on Wimbledon, the Australian Open, Roland Garros and the US Open to give the wider field a bigger share of the revenue the tournaments generate. Beyond money, the group also pushed for concrete changes to tournament structures and better support systems to protect players’ physical and mental health.

The Grand Slams, meanwhile, claimed they remain open to dialogue, while strongly defending their current prize money levels and the facilities they already provide.

Despite holding meetings with the Grand Slams last year, players believed talks have stalled and are increasingly frustrated by the sense that their voices aren’t being heard. As a result, they have chosen to go public with their concerns and are prepared to consider further action if progress isn’t made.

In response, the Professional Tennis Players’ Association launched legal action in the US, the UK and the EU, claiming to act “on behalf of the entire player population.”

The group challenged what it calls an unfair prize-money structure, an “unsustainable” 11-month calendar, and the use of what it describes as invasive searches of players’ personal devices. However, last month, Tennis Australia reached a settlement with the PTPA after receiving court approval.

While other Grand Slam defendants are yet to respond to the whole episode, but the prize money battle that the players’ association has raised still didn’t reach its conclusion. While ATP and WTA players still stand together raising their concerns over the structure, only time will tell when the debate will reach a solid solution.