Coco Gauff Admits the Top 10 Players Signed a Letter for More Prize Money

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Vivek Devane | Last updated Sep 28, 2025 4:51 AM ET

Coco Gauff survived a stern test at the China Open earlier today, edging past Canada’s Leylah Fernandez in a thrilling three-set encounter. The American star prevailed 6-4, 4-6, 7-5 in just under three hours, showing resilience and composure against an inspired opponent.

But while Gauff’s performance on the court grabbed headlines, she also addressed an important issue off the court: prize money distribution on the WTA Tour. Speaking after her match, the World No. 3 revealed that she and other top players have been actively involved in pushing for change.

“Overall, it’s been a long, long process with that,” Gauff explained. “We have a player representative. I like to keep most of the comments for him because they did have a meeting this week. I was not a part of it because I had practice at the same time. I did get a text message of a recap. I wouldn’t say I fully know all the details what transpired as of last week.”

The 21-year-old revealed that the discussions began earlier this year at Indian Wells, when the top 10 players signed a letter to open dialogue with tennis authorities.

“I think the goal is just obviously increasing the percentage of prize money, but also making it better not just for us but throughout the field,” she said. “The top 10 signed a letter as a representation of the entire tour, within the top 200 or top 300 I would say.”

Acknowledging that the biggest names naturally hold more leverage, Gauff emphasized the responsibility that comes with such influence.

“Unfortunately, it’s like that: the top players, you can put more pressure, your voices are heard a little bit more. We try to take advantage of that and use it. The biggest message is not just to benefit us, it’s to benefit all the players,” said the American star.

For now, Gauff will continue her China Open campaign with renewed focus, but her comments underline a growing movement among tennis’ elite to address long-standing concerns about fairness and financial sustainability across the sport.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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