Rafael Nadal takes a different side from Novak Djokovic in tennis’ biggest off-court disagreement.
Rafael Nadal has sparked some debate among tennis stars after saying he doesn’t agree with players asking for a bigger share of Grand Slam prize money. This adds to the ongoing talks about prize money in tennis.
The topic has been a big focus at Grand Slam events this year, especially after players protested at Wimbledon last week to speak up for their demands.
The discussion between top players and the four Grand Slam tournaments has been happening since March 2025. Players want a bigger cut of tournament earnings, more support for player welfare, and a special Grand Slam player committee.
Right now, ATP and WTA Tour events give out about 22% of their revenue as prize money, but Wimbledon only gives 14.4%.
Because of the pressure, the All England Club announced a 20% increase in prize money for this year’s Wimbledon, raising the total to £64.2 million. But players had asked for £71 million, which would be 16% of the money made.
This isn’t a new fight. Last year, Novak Djokovic said there’s still “room for improvement” with Grand Slam prize money. He pointed out that his concern isn’t just about the biggest stars earning more but helping lower-ranked players who mostly depend on prize money to keep playing.
“I’ve heard people say I just want more money for myself, but that’s not true,” Djokovic said in August 2025. “I’m talking about all players. Not many tennis players worldwide can live off this sport, and that’s not discussed enough.”
Djokovic also mentioned that prize money hasn’t kept up with inflation. But Nadal didn’t agree with that idea.
“If you compare how much players earned 15 years ago with now, you’ll see prize money has grown faster than most jobs,” Nadal told CNBC Meets.
“I don’t think players should take a share of the tournaments’ earnings. Instead, they should work out an agreement with the Grand Slams—like increasing prize money by a set percentage every year.
“Make a deal for 10 years. That way, everyone knows what to expect and there’s peace for a decade.”
People in tennis are split on this. Some say top players already earn plenty, while others think they deserve more because they bring in a lot of money for the tournaments.
Wimbledon still offers equal prize money for men and women’s singles, with winners this year taking home £3.6 million each.
Players who lose in the first qualifying round get £20,000, and those who reach the main draw get at least £80,000.
Prize money is lower for doubles: the men’s and women’s doubles winners split £760,000, with first-round players getting £18,000. In mixed doubles, winners share £148,000 and first-round teams get £5,200.
Even with this year’s raise, Wimbledon’s total prize fund is the second biggest among the Grand Slams, just behind the US Open.