Jessica Pegula, the 2024 U.S. Open runner-up, is leading the charge in a tennis prize money protest.
What's at stake?
The Grand Slams' share of tournament revenues devoted to prize money has dropped, with the upcoming French Open allegedly devoting under 14.9% to the players.
The French Open organizers announced a 10% increase in overall prize money, but the players argue this doesn't reflect the true story.
Why it matters for Jessica Pegula
Pegula's experience growing up in a household of sports managers, with her parents owning the NFL's Buffalo Bills and the NHL's Buffalo Sabres, has prepared her for this role.
She's not afraid to reach out to players on the men's and women's side, saying "I'm not afraid to go up to any type of player and go like, 'Hey, are you interested in this or not?'".
What comes next?
The players, including Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner, are considering a boycott to push for a bigger slice of tournament revenue.
Pegula believes the players' voices will be heard, saying "At the end of the day the players are the ones that have the big voices".
The French Open starts in less than two weeks, and the players are waiting for a response from the organizers.
Pegula was named to lead a new 13-person panel to suggest changes to the women's tennis calendar, rankings points rules, and the requirements about competing in certain events.
She's taking on the prize money issue, too, comparing tennis to the NFL and saying "it's crazy. It's an insane difference".
The players sent a letter to the heads of the four Grand Slams seeking more prize money and a greater say in decision-making last year.
Wimbledon increased its 2025 total pot by 7%, the U.S. Open by 20%, and the Australian Open this past January by 16%.
The players say the Grand Slams don't match the rate of 22% at regular ATP and WTA Tour events.
Pegula thinks tennis has been a very old-school sport and needs to change, saying "sometimes change is good. Sometimes that means fighting for things".