Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka criticize low prize money at Indian Wells.

The recent victory of [Jannik Sinner](https://apitofinal.pt/modalidades/tenis/jack-draper-acredita-que-jogadores-tem-planos-para-alcancar-jannik-sinner-e-carlos-alcaraz/) and Aryna Sabalenka at the prestigious Indian Wells tournament not only marked a high point in their careers but also raised important questions about the remuneration of elite players on the tennis circuit. The scathing criticism from former ATP player Sam Querrey regarding the prize money offered at the event highlights a concerning disparity that affects champions in the sport.

Sabalenka, the current world number one in the WTA, and Sinner, ranked second in the ATP, clinched the title last Sunday in finals that will remain memorable for fans. Sabalenka, after two previous final defeats, staged an epic duel against her rival Elena Rybakina, saving a championship point and triumphing with a thrilling score of 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(6). Meanwhile, Sinner overcame the resurgent Daniil Medvedev with a tight 7-6(6), 7-6(4), securing his first crown at the tournament.

Despite the equal prize of $1,151,380 that both players received, Querrey expressed his outrage, stating that the amount should be much higher. “Sinner and Sabalenka each received $1.15 million for winning Indian Wells. I’m convinced they should be getting $3 million. Players are underpaid; I believe they should be closer to $3 million for that victory,” Querrey stated emphatically on his show “Nothing Major.”

This year, the prize money at Indian Wells, considered one of the biggest tournaments outside the Grand Slams, has decreased compared to previous years. Jack Draper, for example, received $1,201,125 last year, an amount that exceeds Sinner’s earnings. While Sabalenka received a higher amount than Mirra Andreeva in 2022, the long-term decrease in prize money is undeniable, especially when noting that in 2023, Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina took home $1,262,220, and in 2019, champions Dominic Thiem and Bianca Andreescu earned $1,354,010.

With both players set to compete in the Miami Open, where the prize money remains the same as at Indian Wells, the discussion about remuneration in professional tennis remains prominent. Expectations are high, as both Sabalenka and Sinner have the opportunity to complete the ‘Sunshine Double,’ a feat rarely achieved. Last year’s Miami tournament champion, Sabalenka, is the top seed, while Sinner aims to reclaim the title he won in 2024.

Pressure for tennis institutions to reassess their prize money policies is becoming increasingly evident, and with voices like Querrey’s rising, it is clear that the sport faces a challenge not only on the courts but also in the finances that support its athletes.