Aryna Sabalenka ended her French Open press conference after 15 minutes on Friday, joining Jannik Sinner and Coco Gauff in a coordinated protest over Grand Slam prize money. The three limited media appearances to match the 15.5 per cent revenue share players receive, down 7 per cent from ATP and WTA Tour events. The gesture reflected mounting frustration that top players earn far less than the tournaments generate.

Roland Garros raised the total prize pot by £4.58m to £53.39m, with singles champions taking £2.42m. Sabalenka called the increase insufficient, saying she fights for lower-ranked players. Taylor Fritz avoided the word boycott, cautioning that such a threat carries serious consequences. Sinner and Rublev stressed the fight is about respect and growing the sport together.

Roland Garros officials expressed regret and scheduled a Friday meeting with players. Gauff also ended her session after 15 minutes, calling the coordinated action a first real point of collective effort. Sabalenka says she is 100 per cent physically ready despite earlier clay-court struggles that left her with just four wins in six matches this season.