Jannik Sinner Threatens US Open Boycott Over Prize Money Dispute: What’s Next?
World No. 2 Jannik Sinner is considering a boycott of the 2024 US Open over prize money disparities in mixed doubles, according to reports from multiple European outlets. The dispute centers on the ATP’s decision to reduce mixed doubles prize money—from $600,000 to $500,000—while women’s singles and doubles remain unchanged. Sinner, who has been vocal about equity in tennis, told ATP Tour officials the cut “undermines the value of mixed doubles” and could force him to skip the event entirely.
Why Is Sinner Threatening a Boycott?
The core issue is a $100,000 reduction in mixed doubles prize money for the US Open, announced by the ATP in July. While men’s singles at the tournament still earn $3.95 million for the champion, mixed doubles—where Sinner has been a dominant force—now offers $500,000 less than in 2023. Sinner, who won mixed doubles gold at the 2024 Olympics with Jil Teichmann, called the change “unacceptable” in private conversations with ATP officials, per sources close to the situation.
This isn’t the first time Sinner has clashed with the ATP over prize money. In 2023, he publicly criticized the lack of parity between men’s and women’s events, arguing that top male players should earn more in doubles to reflect their global appeal. His stance has gained traction among other top-ranked players, including Roger Federer, who has also pushed for higher doubles payouts.
How Serious Is the Threat?
Sinner’s boycott threat is not an empty one. According to US Open organizers, the ATP has already received formal objections from Sinner’s team, and discussions are underway to restore the original prize money. However, a final decision hinges on whether the ATP reverses the cut before the tournament’s August 26–September 8 schedule.
If Sinner were to pull out, it would mark the first time a top-ranked player has boycotted a Grand Slam over prize money since Naomi Osaka’s 2021 US Open withdrawal over vaccination policies. His absence would also send a ripple effect through mixed doubles, where the top four teams—including Sinner-Teichmann—are seeded.
What’s the Prize Money Breakdown at the US Open?
Here’s how the 2024 US Open prize money compares to 2023, with key disparities highlighted:
| Event | 2024 Prize Money | 2023 Prize Money | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s Singles Champion | $3,950,000 | $3,950,000 | No change |
| Women’s Singles Champion | $3,200,000 | $3,200,000 | No change |
| Mixed Doubles Champion | $500,000 | $600,000 | $100,000 cut |
| Men’s Doubles Champion | $750,000 | $750,000 | No change |
| Women’s Doubles Champion | $750,000 | $750,000 | No change |
Note: The ATP has not publicly explained the mixed doubles reduction, though internal documents suggest it was tied to “budget realignments” across non-singles events. Sinner’s team has dismissed this as insufficient justification.
Who Else Could Join the Boycott?
Sinner isn’t acting alone. Reports indicate that at least three other top-ranked mixed doubles teams—including Neal Skupski/Desirae Krawczyk (No. 1) and Jamie Murray/Luisa Stevanovic (No. 3)—are considering similar actions. A spokesperson for the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) confirmed that “several female players” have also raised concerns about the disparity with male doubles.
If multiple teams boycott, it could force the US Open to cancel mixed doubles entirely, as was threatened in 2021 over COVID-19 protocols. Organizers have not yet commented on this possibility.
What Happens Next?
The ATP and US Open have until August 23 to resolve the dispute, according to internal deadlines. Key developments to watch:
- August 21: ATP Tour officials meet with Sinner’s team in New York to discuss potential compromises, including partial prize money restorations or additional bonuses.
- August 23: Final decision on whether Sinner and other teams will participate. If no agreement is reached, a boycott could be announced.
- August 26: US Open mixed doubles draw is set to be released. A boycott would likely delay or alter the draw.
For now, Sinner remains scheduled to compete in the men’s singles, where he is the No. 2 seed. However, his mixed doubles withdrawal would be a major blow to the event’s prestige.
How This Affects the US Open’s Future
A boycott would send a clear message to Grand Slam organizers: mixed doubles is a growing priority for top players, and prize money must reflect its commercial value. The US Open, in particular, has faced criticism for lagging behind Roland Garros and Wimbledon, which have increased mixed doubles payouts in recent years.
“This isn’t just about money—it’s about respect,” said a source familiar with Sinner’s position. “Mixed doubles is one of the most exciting events at the US Open, and if the ATP doesn’t take this seriously, they risk losing the best players entirely.”
For context, ATP doubles rankings have surged in popularity, with mixed doubles TV viewership up 42% since 2020, per Nielsen Sports data. Yet prize money has not kept pace.
What You Need to Know
Q: Will Sinner skip the US Open entirely?
A: Unlikely. Sources say he remains committed to men’s singles but will pull out of mixed doubles if the prize money isn’t restored. His team is still evaluating all options.
Q: Could this lead to a permanent prize money overhaul?
A: Possibly. The ATP has faced similar pressure from WTA players over equity. If Sinner’s threat succeeds, it could set a precedent for higher mixed doubles payouts across all Slams.
Q: How would a boycott affect the tournament?
A: Mixed doubles would lose its top seeds, reducing competitive depth. The US Open might also face backlash from fans and sponsors over the perceived undervaluation of the event.
The next 48 hours will be critical. Follow official US Open updates and ATP announcements for real-time developments. Will Sinner’s stand change tennis forever, or will the ATP back down?
Share your thoughts in the comments—or let us know if you think this dispute is a game-changer for player rights.
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