Players move push for pay and reforms into new Grand Slam council

New York - Top tennis players have announced they will shift their push for greater influence and financial benefits from the four Grand Slams to a new Player Advisory Council, rather than continuing public campaigns. The move comes after a successful year of negotiations and protests, during which players reduced media duties at key tournaments.

Initially seeking a 22% share of tournament revenues, players have seen prize money increase substantially across all four majors, reaching $108 million at the U.S. Open this year. While the Grand Slams have yet to meet the players' target of 22% revenue distribution by 2030, they have acknowledged progress in prize money increases.

The new council will facilitate ongoing negotiations between players and the Grand Slams, with an initial commitment from the U.S. Open to provide $2 million for player welfare. Players expressed optimism about the council's ability to achieve their remaining objectives and pledged to restart their campaign if necessary.