WTA Introduces Paid Maternity Leave for Players In Landmark Move

By: Gyang Dakwo

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) announced on Thursday a groundbreaking family benefits program, offering players up to 12 months of paid maternity leave for the first time. The initiative, sponsored by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), also includes grants for fertility treatment and other support, marking a historic step for self-employed athletes.

Over 320 players will be eligible for the benefits, contingent on participation in a specified number of WTA tournaments within a set timeframe.

WTA CEO Portia Archer emphasized the challenges of balancing professional tennis with motherhood, stating, “We have been exploring how we can increase our support for players to help them become parents at a time of their choice.”

Victoria Azarenka, a two-time Grand Slam champion and WTA Players’ Council Representative, praised the move. Having faced her own challenges after giving birth in 2016, Azarenka called the program a “meaningful shift” in supporting women in tennis.

The announcement reflects a growing trend in global sports to better accommodate working parents, with athletes across various disciplines advocating for improved family benefits.