French Open learns from AO backlash as cameras banned; Prize money increases
- Christian Montegan
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The French Open will be the first Grand Slam to ban cameras in the players' area to protect privacy amid criticism at this year's Australian Open.
After Coco Gauff's quarter-final defeat to Elina Svitolina at Melbourne Park, the American let out her frustration by smashing her racquet in the Rod Laver Arena tunnel, not knowing that she was being filmed.
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The vision went viral, and Gauff was asked about it in her post-match press conference.
"I tried to go somewhere where there was no cameras," she told reporters.
"I kind of have a thing with the broadcast. I feel like certain moments … I feel like they don't need to broadcast.
"I tried to go somewhere where I thought there wasn't a camera because I don't necessarily like breaking racquets. Round of 16 of French Open, I think, I said I would never do it again on court because I don't feel like that's a good representation."
Ahead of the second major of the year in Paris, tournament director Amélie Mauresmo confirmed that player feedback has been taken on board.
"Players need a private area, something which will not change," Mauresmo said during the Roland-Garros pre-tournament press conference. "No cam access."
In other news, French Open prize money has increased by 9.53 per cent compared to 2025, with the total prize pool equating to 61,723,000 euros (A$101,490,000).
The men's and women's singles champions will each receive 2.8 million euros (A$4.6 million).
Despite calls for electronic line calling to be introduced to align with the other three Grand Slams, the French Open won't budge.
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