Rublev: "Thanks to the tennis players, money is generated, but they don't listen to us, they just use us"

Diego Jiménez Rubio | 22 May 2026 | 13.55

Andrey Rublev, distribution of money, discomfort. Photo: gettyimages

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Andrey Rublev appeared at the Media Day of Roland Garros 2026 delivering one of the most assertive speeches of the day regarding the conflict between players and the Grand Slams over economic distribution and conditions within the professional circuit. The Russian confirmed his direct involvement in the protest, advocating the need for a real dialogue with the organizations that manage the major tournaments.

Almost the entire press conference of Andrey Rublev focused on denouncing the lack of communication between the bodies and the players, insisting that the problem goes far beyond money and affects the overall development of professional tennis. There are enough reasons for tennis institutions to start taking measures if they do not want this to spiral out of control.

This is how Rublev explained at Roland Garros in 2026 what the players demand from the Grand Slams

Rublev explains why he supports the players' protest

"It's normal. We've tried to communicate for many years, trying to work together and explaining that there are things that can be done better, but no one pays attention. There comes a point where you think we need to do something so that at least they listen to us and we can sit down and talk."

"It's not just a matter of money. There are many aspects behind this. We've tried to communicate for years and many times they don’t even respond to official emails for months. We are doing the same, so there comes a point where you think, 'Come on, are we in this together or you really don’t care'."

The Russian denounces the treatment towards players

"It can't be just a one-way relationship, where players are just used and that's it. Sometimes the treatment towards players is not right. In the end, thanks to the players, all the money is generated and everything that exists around this sport."

"The Grand Slams are the ones who generate the most money and yet, we feel that they don't help in many important things. We are not just saying 'give us more money'. There are many structures that could be improved to help the sport grow, such as bonuses, pensions, or different supports for players."

The importance of dialogue to avoid more drastic measures

"We are fully open to communicate and find solutions. We've been trying to do it for years. Now it also depends on them. If they don't want to listen, then we'll have to think about what the next step is to get them to pay attention to us. It all depends on communication. Players want to collaborate and help develop the sport. We want everyone to feel comfortable within the circuit, but for that, there has to be a much more balanced relationship."

His experience within the Players' Council

"Being part of the Council helps me have a broader view of everything that happens. When you are outside, you hear one version from the players, another from the tournaments, another from ATP or ITF, and in the end, it's difficult to really know what's going on. Changing things within tennis is not simple because there are many parties involved: ATP, ITF, federations, tournament directors, countries, players... Everyone has their own interests, and that's why even changing something small can become a very long process."

The statements of Andrey Rublev at the Media Day of Roland Garros 2026 reflect the growing discontent among players regarding the economic and structural functioning of the circuit. The Russian, increasingly involved in the internal politics of professional tennis, made it clear that players are seeking a more balanced relationship with the major tournaments and greater involvement in decisions that affect the future of the sport.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rublev: "Gracias a los tenistas se genera dinero, pero no nos escuchan, solo nos utilizan"