Tennis: Equal Pay

Well in the business world the pay differences between men and women are gradually disappearing. Yes, in most cases men still get paid a little more, but this may soon be something of the past. It now appears that differences in prize money for men and women in tennis could also be something of the past. This comes as Wimbledon announces it will pay equally for men and women for the 2007 tournament. They are not alone as the Australian and U.S Open have also started paying equal. Of the grand slam's this leaves only the French Open, who only pay equal checks to the eventual winners. That said the French are reviewing their policy and may soon announce equal pay as well. At the present time they only offer equal prize checks to the eventual winners. They also say that this is not a result of the recent announcement, but something they have been considering for some time.

Paying both genders the same amount is generally seen as a positive move. That said it's understandable that the men may feel aggrieved. Amongst the critics of Wimbledon's new pay structure is German player Tommy Hass. Amongst the arguments used are the greater depth in the men's game and the fact that the men have to play up to five sets rather than three. His he maybe the women should be required to play the same number of sets as the men. Traditionally I have felt it is fine that the women are not required to play as many sets as the men. The reason I felt this way was because the slight difference in prize money made up for it.

It appears by reading between the lines that the decision has been made to promote women's tennis. As the All England Club want to make sure there is an opportunity in tennis for girls as there is for boys. It's also a move to recognize the contribution women make the championships. Generally it makes sense to pay both men and women the same amount bearing in mind they are playing in the same tournament. Generally men are stronger and should probably be made to play more tennis. This I think is the best defense to paying the same money. It will be interesting to see the developments on this issue. I'm sure most people will agree this is a positive move.