The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has announced a historic maternity leave policy, offering 12 months of paid leave for pregnant players and two months of paid leave for those becoming parents via partner pregnancy, surrogacy, or adoption. Sponsored by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the initiative marks a significant milestone in women’s sports.
“This is really sort of novel and groundbreaking,” said WTA CEO Portia Archer, emphasizing how independent contractors and self-employed athletes typically lack such benefits. More than 300 players are eligible for the program, retroactive to Jan. 1, though the WTA has not disclosed financial specifics.
The initiative also includes grants for fertility treatments, including egg freezing and IVF, further addressing the parental needs of female athletes. The WTA describes it as “the first time in women’s sports history that comprehensive maternity benefits are available to independent, self-employed athletes.”
Currently, 25 mothers are competing on the WTA Tour, including Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic, who recently won a title after returning from maternity leave. Tennis legends like Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, Kim Clijsters, Caroline Wozniacki, and Victoria Azarenka have also resumed their careers after childbirth.
Azarenka, a key advocate for the fund through the WTA Players’ Council, believes the program will particularly benefit lower-ranked players, allowing them the flexibility to take necessary time off without financial strain. She also sees it as a catalyst for shifting the conversation around parenthood in professional sports.
Other WTA initiatives in recent years include boosting female coaching opportunities, enhancing safeguarding measures, combating cyberbullying, and working toward equal prize money.
Saudi Arabia’s growing role in tennis has sparked debate, with critics questioning its stance on LGBTQ+ and women’s rights. Despite this, the PIF has become the WTA’s global partner, sponsoring rankings and hosting major events, including the WTA Finals.
In comparison, maternity policies in other sports vary. The LPGA offers returning golfers the same playing status, the NWSL and U.S. Women’s National Team ensure full pregnancy leave, and the WNBA guarantees full pay during maternity leave.
Azarenka views the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program as a groundbreaking step but believes it should be expanded further. “It’s an incredible beginning. Monumental change,” she said.
Source: Swifteradio.com
