Australian Open 2026 sees players call for greater Grand Slam prize money and welfare benefits

Madison Keys said she is "cautiously optimistic" about talks to increase Grand Slam prize money and welfare support, while Alexander Zverev said he had seen "little progress"; both are among a group of top-20 players who held discussions last year with the four majors.

Top players at the Australian Open are urging larger Grand Slam prize money and stronger welfare provisions. Madison Keys, the reigning champion, described herself as "cautiously optimistic" about possible change. Alexander Zverev said he felt there had been "little progress". Both are part of a group of top-20 players who held a series of discussions last year with the four majors about pay and player welfare. Key points: - Madison Keys said she is "cautiously optimistic" that change may come and argued it makes sense for players to ask for more. - Alexander Zverev said he has seen "little progress" and described players as having limited voice in tournament politics. - A group of top-20 players met last year with the four majors — Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open — to discuss increased prize money and enhanced welfare support. - Some observers have questioned whether the players' demands are reasonable; players have framed their request by noting their role in generating the sport's value. Summary: The comments from leading players highlight ongoing discussions about how the Grand Slams compensate and support competitors and bring public attention to those talks. Undetermined at this time.