World number one Aryna Sabalenka believes players will boycott a Grand Slam “at some point” because of the ongoing dispute over prize money.
The men’s and women’s top-10 players are demanding a higher percentage of the revenue generated by the four majors, as well as benefit contributions and a greater say in areas such as scheduling.
But until Sabalenka spoke to the media in Rome before the Italian Open, players had been circumspect on the subject of strike action.
“I think at some point we will boycott it. I feel like that’s going to be the only way to kind of fight for our rights,” the Belarusian said.
“I feel like the show is on us. I feel like without us there wouldn’t be a tournament and there wouldn’t be that entertainment.”
Fourth-ranked Coco Gauff said she could “100%” see herself boycotting a Grand Slam “if everyone were to move as one and collaborate”.
However, world number three Iga Swiatek said she supports the call for increased prize money but a boycott would be a “bit extreme”, while Britain’s Emma Raducanu said she “would not be a part” of any boycott.