Players demanding hike in prize money isn't unfair: Sania Mirza

Bengaluru: Whether it was during her playing days or after her career ended; on a tennis court or off it, former Indian star Sania Mirza has always been unabashedly vocal, opinionated, expressive and unapologetically proud about it. 

So when the recent news broke out about some current top players demanding a prize money increase from 15% to 22% of total Grand Slam revenues and the possible consequences if authorities do not heed their demand, Sania immediately backed the players’ stand. 

“This is a conversation that’s come up for the second time. It had happened a few years ago when Roger (Federer) and everybody were still playing,” began the Hyderabadi during an online press conference organised by Sony Sports. 

“Obviously, the ask of the players cannot be termed unfair, as most of the money is generated because the top players are showing up. Back then, the prize money had increased. It’s not surprising that the conversation is back because it wasn’t fully resolved. 

“There was a small hike. Then over time there have been smaller hikes and people just kind of went along with it. But this time, the players seem a bit more adamant about it. And when the number one player (Aryna Sabalenka) talks about it, it’s a big deal. It will be interesting to see where this goes.” 

On Wednesday, players planning to reduce media interaction ahead of the start of Roland Garros in Paris as a protest over revenue share made headlines. While the paycheque of competitors has drawn all the unwanted attention prior to the second Slam of the year, Sania stressed the interest among those who love the sport still remains on how the players fare on the clay courts. 

"Understanding that (Carlos) Alcaraz is not in the mix, Jannik Sinner is the favourite to win in the men's section. I mean, he is coming in having won six ATP 1000’s in a row. For the women, I think it's quite open for the first time in a while. There is (Elina) Svitolina, Marta Kostyuk… Elena Rybakina won Stuttgart. Sabalenka and Iga (Swiatek) are not playing their best on this surface. My gut is that we might have a new champion. Maybe a Mirra Andreeva or a Svitolina,” said Sania. 

Moving away from the French Open and when asked about elite athletes entering administration under the new sports code, Sania, while admitting the transition is much needed, clarified that nobody from the All India Tennis Association (AITA) have approached her. 

(Catch all the action of French Open, starting May 24, live on Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD and Sony LIV.)