American tennis player Reilly Opelka has added his voice to the growing debate around prize money and revenue sharing in professional tennis ahead of the upcoming French Open. Several top ATP and WTA stars have recently questioned whether players are receiving a fair share of the sport's massive earnings from television rights, sponsorships, and ticket sales.
Growing Momentum for Player Compensation Discussions
The issue has gained momentum in recent weeks after reports suggested that leading players held discussions with Grand Slam organizers regarding compensation, scheduling, and player welfare. Big names including Novak Djokovic, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff have publicly spoken about the physical and financial demands of the tour. Although rumors of a possible boycott surfaced before Roland Garros, no official plans have been confirmed by players or tournament officials.
Opelka Compares Tennis to Other Sports
Reilly Opelka shared his opinion on social media while comparing tennis earnings with the money involved in professional golf. The former World No. 17 pointed to the financial gap between the two sports and argued that many tennis players, despite competing globally throughout the year, are still underpaid compared to athletes in other major competitions like the NBA, NHL, NFL, and MLB.
Using golf star Scottie Scheffler as an example, Opelka suggested that even support staff in golf can sometimes earn more than elite tennis professionals. In his Instagram story, the American remarked that Scheffler's caddie reportedly earns more money than some players ranked inside the top 10 in tennis. His comment quickly attracted attention online as fans and players continued discussing the economics of the sport.
Opelka's Longstanding Views on Tennis Finances
This is not the first time Opelka has spoken openly about financial realities in tennis. Back in 2019, during an interview with Tennishead.net, the American admitted he sometimes wondered if basketball would have offered a better career path. He explained that NBA players enjoy greater financial security, luxury travel, and a more stable lifestyle while remaining based mainly in the United States.
Opelka said at the time that basketball players live far more comfortably, with even minimum NBA contracts offering huge salaries and benefits. He added that the lifestyle of private flights, better schedules, and long-term security made basketball highly attractive compared to the grind of the tennis tour.
The American is currently continuing his clay-court season after competing in tournaments such as the Barcelona Open and the Madrid Open earlier this year.
