Grand Slam Player Council: formation of an advisory council

The Council, which will launch following the 2026 US Open, will further strengthen the partnership between the Grand Slams and the players, with a focus on player input into sporting matters at the four Grand Slam tournaments and advancing the shared goal of greater player support. The four Major are currently shaping the Council’s initial composition, framework and operating structure with player input. Interested players will be invited to apply and those appointed to the Council will address the full range of Grand Slam sporting matters. A decision welcomed by the players.

"Having a seat at the table with the Grand Slams is something we have wanted for some time, so I’m really pleased to see this council come together, said Ben Shelton.

"It gives us, as players, a real opportunity to have a voice, contribute to the conversation and help shape the tournaments beyond what happens on the court."

Sporting matters that affect the Grand Slam tournaments collectively will be addressed through the Council on a joint basis. The Council will also provide a regular forum for players to raise and discuss player welfare and compensation matters, including prize money, with each Grand Slam individually because of the distinct structure, economics, governance and decision-making process of each tournament and consistent with applicable legal requirements. Players have welcomed the formation of the new Council and the opportunity for more direct engagement with the Grand Slams.

"The Grand Slams are the biggest events of the year and the events that the players prioritize and focus on throughout the season. Their impact on a player's career cannot be overstated, and that is why it is so important that we have a voice in matters at these tournaments," added Jessica Pegula.

Grand Slam Chairs echo the sentiment.

"The creation of the Grand Slam Player Council will have a positive impact on our sport. By creating a new space for dialogue, we are giving players more opportunities to help shape, alongside us, the continued growth of Grand Slam Tennis", concluded Gilles Moretton, the President of the French Tennis Federation.

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