Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has teamed up with the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) to launch a groundbreaking maternity support program, offering paid maternity leave of up to 12 months for players on the women’s tennis circuit. The initiative, announced on Thursday, aims to provide financial stability, fertility treatment grants, and additional benefits to more than 320 eligible WTA players.
A Major Milestone for Women in Tennis
For the first time in WTA history, female players will receive guaranteed income during maternity leave. To qualify, players must participate in a set number of WTA tournaments within a specific timeframe.
Belinda Bencic, the Olympic gold medalist from Switzerland, welcomed the news, stating, “Absolutely, it’s the best news really. We are very proud that the WTA is leading the way in women’s sports.”
Bencic, who returned to the tour after giving birth to her daughter Bella last April, emphasized the impact on lower-ranked players who struggle financially while taking time off to start a family. “This support is crucial for players who have to survive without competing for a year and then attempt a comeback,” she added.
Championing Support for Tennis Moms
Two-time Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, a WTA players’ council representative, praised the initiative as a “meaningful shift” in how the sport supports women. “Ensuring programs like this exist has been a personal mission of mine,” said Azarenka, who became a mother in 2016.
WTA CEO Portia Archer echoed the sentiment, calling the program a “game-changer” that will give “current and future generations of players the support and flexibility to balance their careers and family aspirations.”
Growing Number of Mothers in Tennis
The WTA reports that 25 active players on the tour are mothers, proving that family life and professional sports can go hand in hand. Many high-profile players have taken maternity breaks, with varying levels of success upon their return.
- Kim Clijsters won three Grand Slam titles after giving birth in 2008.
- Serena Williams reached four major finals post-maternity but fell short of adding to her 23 Grand Slam victories.
- Naomi Osaka returned to the court in early 2024 after having her daughter, making a final in Auckland.
Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence in Tennis
Saudi Arabia has significantly increased its investment in tennis, hosting the WTA Finals in Riyadh in 2023, with the event set to return in 2025 and 2026. This comes as part of a multi-year partnership between the WTA and PIF, further solidifying the kingdom’s role in shaping the future of women’s tennis.
With this initiative, the WTA and PIF are paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment, allowing female athletes to pursue both their career ambitions and personal milestones
