Grand Slam tournaments create player council to give players more input into biggest tennis events

The Grand Slam tennis tournaments have established a player council to provide players with more influence over the most significant events in the sport. This council was announced by the Australian Open, the French Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Open on Thursday. It will commence following the final major of the year, which starts next week in New York.

Players have been advocating for a larger share of revenues from the Grand Slams, better representation, improved health options, and pensions. Some stars, such as top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff, even staged a protest by limiting their media appearances at the French Open and Wimbledon. They even threatened a potential boycott of the Slams if they did not receive more compensation.

Jessica Pegula, the No. 3-ranked woman, emphasized the importance of player input during the Grand Slams, stating that their impact on a player's career cannot be overstated. The Grand Slams aim to enhance the partnership between the tournaments and players, focusing on their input on sporting matters at these events. Currently, the tournaments and players are working on the council's composition and structure, and interested players will be invited to apply for positions.

Apart from addressing issues that affect the Grand Slams collectively, the council will also serve as a platform for players to discuss matters like prize money and player welfare with each of the tournaments individually.