World No. 6 Casper Ruud has spoken out about the demand from Top-20 ATP and WTA players to increase prize money at Grand Slam tournaments and to organize a meeting to discuss this issue.
`I can`t go into too much detail [about whether I signed the letter]. But it is certainly possible that it could have happened.`
`As a player, I don`t think it`s fair that players receive an average of 15% of the income from Slams, because we are no less important than the tournament itself. If you compare it with other major sports, with the NFL, MLB, NBA leagues, the percentage of income that goes to players is closer to 50%.`
`The main thing that I think people know little about is how the Grand Slams distribute income, what they earn from and where the money goes,` – Ruud was quoted by RMC Sport.
According to Ruud, a fair distribution of income between Slams and players would be 50/50.
`I think this will never happen. But if we can get closer to it… Every percentage can help.`
`For those who may not earn millions a year, an extra few hundred thousand dollars will make a serious difference. For those who drop out early, for qualifiers, for anyone.`
`Look at the USTA or US Open: they earn more than $500 million, and players are paid only 65-70 million.`
`In recent years, the Slams have started a day earlier. Most organizers make decisions without even communicating or consulting with the players. Due to certain measures taken by the Slams, we have a feeling that it is time to react and seek a meeting to discuss some issues.`
