Player money demands more old news for Djokovic

Novak Djokovic on Thursday offered support to player demands for more of a share of the Grand Slam moneybag, with the veteran Serb reminding that he has fought that particular battle before.

The 24-time major winner who turns 39 in just over a fortnight, will be playing in only his third tournament of the season when he fronts up at the Foro Italico.

The Serb last competed in early March at Indian Wells, but has been missing since through injury.

Djokovic did not hold back in supporting a letter signed by 20 top ATP and WTA players seeking a bigger slice of the Grand Slam, with prize money payouts at the majors all under 20 percent of gross revenue.

“This is not a new subject, new topic. It’s been ongoing for many, many years.” the player who won the first of his six titles here in 2008 said.

“As long as I’m playing I know this has been a topic.”

The veteran who is the last of the iconic Big 4 still active on court said that the bureaucratic system of the sport is stacked against player power.

“The monopoly of our sport is very strong. Tennis has changed a lot, but
there’s certain things within the structure that hasn’t changed.

“The players within the Player Council have really absolutely
no power. I’ve been there. I was president of the council.”

While Djokovic gave his support to the current reform effort, he said he will be watching from the sidelines, adding that his main goal is to do well in Rome while concentrating on a possible standout performance at Roland Garros in a few weeks.

“Players know that they’ll always have my support… the new generation is coming up. I’m glad that there is willingness from the leaders of our sport to really step up and really understand the dynamics of how tennis politics works and understand the nuances and really what needs to be done for everyone.”

The potential for a boycott of a future Slam event is gaining traction, with fellow world No.1s Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka both on board.

Sinner said that players are not being respected, with their letter earlier in the year not even dignified with a serious response.

“If the top athletes (in other sports) send important letters, I truly believe that within 48 hours you have not only a response but you also agree to have a meeting.”

Main photo:- The Iconic 4 – Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, Andy Murray – by Roger Parker ISF Ltd