World number one Aryna Sabalenka has warned that players could boycott the French Open if prize money at the clay-court Grand Slam is not increased. The threat, made on Tuesday at the Italian Open, escalates a growing dispute between players and Roland Garros organizers over revenue distribution.

Sabalenka told reporters: "I think at some point we will boycott it, yeah. I feel like that's going to be the only way to fight for our rights." She expressed hope that ongoing negotiations would lead to a satisfactory conclusion for all parties.

The warning follows a statement from several top players on Monday, arguing that their prize money would likely be less than 15% of tournament revenue, far short of the 22% they demand to match combined ATP and WTA 1000 events. This year's French Open offers a total prize pool of €61.7 million ($72.1 million), a 10% increase from last year.

World number four Coco Gauff voiced strong support for a potential boycott, saying she could "100 percent see" players taking such action if they act collectively. Gauff also called for the formation of a players' union, citing the WNBA's recent collective bargaining agreement as a model for progress.

Despite the increase, Roland Garros still trails other Grand Slams in prize money. The US Open offered $90 million last year, Wimbledon paid out $72.51 million, and the Australian Open set a record with $80.06 million this year. Sabalenka emphasized that players deserve a larger share, stating: "Without us there wouldn't be a tournament."

Source: www.aljazeera.com