Djokovic explains decision to steer clear of French Open media boycott amid prize money row: 'I’m not part of that'
Novak Djokovic opens up on his decision to opt against the players' media boycott during the 2026 French Open tournament as ongoing Grand Slam pay dispute intensifies.
Novak Djokovic has made it clear he will not join the players’ 15‑minute media protest ahead of the French Open amid the ongoing pay dispute.
The French Open has been engulfed in controversy after players threatened a boycott over the Grand Slam event's revenue-sharing.
On Friday, the top tennis players staged a symbolic protest by arriving at the press conference but walking out after 15 minutes of media duty, a gesture to the Grand Slam organisers' 15% revenue share, which is allocated as prize money.
Djokovic clarifies his position
Djokovic was asked about his involvement in the protest, to which he confirmed that he is not a part, but he reiterated his support for athletes, especially those lower in the rankings.
"I was not part of the process, plan or decision making. So I’m not part of that at all, and I can’t comment on that. What I can keep doing is advocating for players, like I always did. Not only the top players. The lower-ranked as well," Djokovic said on media day.
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French Open organisers to not alter prize pool
The Grand Slam organisers allocate an average of 15% of the tournament's revenue as prize money, but the athletes are demanding a 22% share and have been staging protests for their voices to be heard.
Top tennis players, including Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz, have already voiced their frustration over the pay dispute, with Sabalenka warning of a potential boycott of Grand Slam events.
Notably, the French Open organisers had earlier increased their total prize pool by 9.53% but insist no further changes will be made.
While the off-court drama intensifies, the attention will soon shift back to the clay courts. Djokovic would open his 2026 Roland Garros campaign against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard on Sunday, May 24, at Court Philippe-Chatrier.
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