Sat Sep 27 08:30:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Alcaraz Set to Face Bergs in Japan Open Second Round; Top Players Push for Revenue Increase from Grand Slams**

TOKYO – World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz is slated to face Zizou Bergs in the second round of the Japan Open on Saturday at 4:30 a.m. ET. The match will take place at the Ariake Coliseum in Tokyo, Japan, which is 13 hours ahead of Eastern Time. Fans in the U.S. can catch the action on Tennis Channel and stream it via DirecTV (free trial).

Meanwhile, off the court, Alcaraz is among a group of top-ranked tennis players advocating for a greater share of Grand Slam tournament revenue. A second letter, signed by stars like Alcaraz, Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and Coco Gauff, has been sent to the four Grand Slam tournaments. The players are seeking an increase from the current 16% to 22% of revenues by 2030, contributions to pension, health, and maternity benefits totaling $12 million annually by that same year, and a larger voice through a new player council. Novak Djokovic did not sign the letter.

The letter outlines specific benchmarks for increasing athlete compensation and influence. Larry Scott, former head of the WTA and the Pac-12 Conference, is advising the players. Meetings have occurred between Scott, players, and representatives from Wimbledon, Roland-Garros, the Australian Open, and the U.S. Open.

The USTA, which runs the U.S. Open, responded to the letter, stating its willingness to increase player compensation, citing the recent increase in the U.S. Open purse to $90 million, and highlighting the record $5 million awarded to singles champions Sabalenka and Alcaraz. The USTA also expressed commitment to transparent discussions and greater player consultation.

The push for increased revenue follows an antitrust lawsuit filed by the Professional Tennis Players’ Association (PTPA), co-founded by Djokovic, against the WTA and ATP tours, arguing that players receive too little of the sport’s revenue. The PTPA has since added the Grand Slam tournament organizers to the lawsuit, seeking accountability and reforms.

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