Aryna Sabalenka’s recent comments on prize money during the Miami Open have ignited a significant discussion within the tennis community. The Belarusian player, currently ranked as the world No. 1, expressed her views on the distribution of prize money in tennis tournaments, particularly at Grand Slam events. She highlighted the disparity between the revenue generated by these tournaments and the percentage allocated to players. Sabalenka suggested that players, regardless of gender, should receive a larger share of the earnings, drawing comparisons to other sports where the distribution model differs.
She said, “Honestly, I haven’t had much time to look for information because I didn’t want to delve into it since I was trying to focus on my tennis, and I didn’t want to get upset or anything about the situation.
One thing I would like to see is maybe not just WTA players, but all players, receive a larger percentage of the money they earn at tournaments and Grand Slams, especially. I think it’s fair. If you look at other sports, the percentage works a little differently, so I think that’s the only wish I have.
For me, I guess the biggest thing would be more of a percentage of the revenue in prize money. I also can’t sit here and complain. I’m a professional athlete, I get paid pretty well to do what I love.”
Her remarks came in the context of a broader conversation sparked by the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which has filed a lawsuit against major tennis governing bodies. The lawsuit challenges various aspects of the sport’s structure, including the ranking system, image rights, and the invasive practices of the International Tennis Integrity Agency. Sabalenka, while admitting she had not delved deeply into the lawsuit, aligned herself with the call for a fairer distribution of prize money.
The debate has resonated with other players as well. Coco Gauff, another prominent figure in the tennis world, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for a more equitable revenue-sharing model. While acknowledging the privileges of being a professional athlete, Gauff pointed out the imbalance in rewards compared to the effort and visibility required in the sport.
Sabalenka’s comments have brought renewed attention to the financial dynamics of tennis, prompting discussions about the sustainability and fairness of the current system. As the Miami Open progresses, the focus on these issues continues to grow, reflecting the players’ collective desire for change in the sport’s economic landscape.
Sabalenka in Miami, ranking, and results in 2025
Now the world no.1, Aryna has achieved a composed 18-4 match record in 2025. Sabalenka is participating in Miami where she overcame Unknown Player bye and the world no.64 Viktoriya Tomova 6-3 6-0.
Aryna Sabalenka will fight against the world no.102 Elena Gabriela Ruse in the 3rd round on Saturday at 1:00 pm on STADIUM. In the past, they have never played each other until now in top events.
Aryna conquered 1 title in 2025 in Brisbane. Sabalenka was the runner-up at the Australian Open and in Indian Wells (BNP Paribas Open).
The Belarussian won 18 titles in her career: 14 on hard courts, 2 on clay courts and 2 on indoor courts. (See the list of her titles)