*The Council will be launched after the 2026 US Open
The Australian Open, Roland Garross, The Championships, Wimbledon and US Open on Thursday announced the formation of a Grand Slam Player Advisory Council to serve as a forum to direct communication, feedback, and collaboration between the Grand Slams and Players.
The Council, which would be launched after the 2026 US Open, will strengthen the partnership between the Grand Slams and the players with focus on player input into sporting matters at the four Grand Slams tournaments and advancing the shared goal of greater player support.
The Grand Slams 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.
The sporting matters that affect the Grand Slam tournaments collectively will be addressed through the Council on a joint basis. The Council will also provide 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.
Jessica Pegula added, “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 over stated, and that is why it is so important that we have a voice in matters at these tournaments. The formation of this player council represents that and I am pleased that the Grand Slams have this forward.”
Chris Harrop, Chair of Tennis Australia said: “The Council will provide a regular forum for the players to share their ideas on how the Grand Slams can continued to improve the player experience and make our events even more compelling for tennis fans around the world. We look forward to working with them and our follow Grand Slams through this important new forum.”
Gilles Morelton, Chair French Tennis Federation, said: “The creation of the Grand Slam Player Advisory 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, along – side us, the continued growth of Grand Slam Tennis.
Deborah Javens, Chair of the All England Club, said: “We have listened to the players’ desire for a greater voice and this advisory council is an important step towards a stronger relationship between the Grand Slams and the players. We look forward to working together to elevate the player experience, further enhance the Grand Slam tournaments and ensure the sport continue to thrive.
Brian Vahaly, USTA Chairman of the Board and President, said: “The Grand Slams and Players share a commitment to making tennis stronger. This Council marks an important step in building an even closer relationship with players and creating a more consistent way for us to shape the future of the Grand Slams and their impact on our sport.”
