Andrey Rublev appeared at the Roland Garros 2026 Media Day delivering one of the most assertive speeches of the day on the conflict between players and Grand Slams over economic distribution and conditions within the professional circuit. The Russian confirmed his direct involvement in the protest, defending the need to open a real dialogue with the organizations managing 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 issue goes beyond money and affects the overall development of professional tennis. There are enough reasons for tennis institutions to start taking action if they do not want this to spiral out of control.
Rublev Explains What Players Are Demanding from the Grand Slams at Roland Garros 2026
Rublev explains why he supports the players' protest
"It's normal. For many years, we've been trying to communicate, work together, and explain that things 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 to talk."
"It's not just about money. There are many aspects behind it. 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 simply 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 around this sport exists."
"The Grand Slams are the ones generating the most money, and yet, we feel that they don't help in many important aspects. We are not just saying 'give us more money.' There are many structures that could be improved to help the sport's growth, such as bonuses, pensions, or different supports for players."

The importance of dialogue to avoid more drastic measures
"We are completely 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. Everything 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 must 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're outside, you hear one version from the players, another from the tournaments, another from ATP or ITF, and in the end, it's hard to know what really goes on. Changing things within tennis is not easy because there are so many parts 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 by Andrey Rublev at the Roland Garros 2026 Media Day 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 seek a more balanced relationship with the major tournaments and a greater involvement in decisions affecting the sport's future.
Cette actualité est une traduction automatique. Vous pouvez lire la nouvelle originale Rublev: "Gracias a los tenistas se genera dinero, pero no nos escuchan, solo nos utilizan"

