The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) have announced a groundbreaking program to provide maternity and family planning benefits for professional female tennis players. The initiative, unveiled on Thursday, marks a significant milestone in the sport, addressing a long-standing gap in player benefits.

A New Era of Support for Players

Under the new program, eligible players will receive up to 12 months of paid maternity leave. Additionally, players will have access to financial grants for fertility treatments, including conception assistance and egg freezing. The WTA confirmed that 320 players will qualify for these benefits.

Portia Archer, CEO of the WTA, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating:

“This initiative will provide the current and next generation of players the support and flexibility to explore family life, in whatever form they choose.”

First Maternity Program Fully Funded by an External Partner

The PIF WTA maternity fund program is the first of its kind in women’s sports to be fully supported by an external partner. While PIF declined to disclose the financial details of its contribution, both organizations assured that players will receive equal compensation under the policy.

This program comes after the WTA and PIF signed a multiyear partnership in May 2024, as Saudi Arabia continues expanding its investments in global sports. PIF is also known for funding the LIV Golf league.

Addressing Concerns and Criticism

Despite the positive strides in player benefits, Saudi Arabia’s involvement in tennis has sparked controversy. Some current and former players have criticized the WTA’s partnership with PIF due to Saudi Arabia’s history of human rights violations. However, PIF representatives have positioned the initiative as part of their commitment to enhancing global sports.

Alanoud Althonayan, Head of Events and Sponsorships at PIF, stated:

“PIF partnerships are designed to elevate every level of sport and leave a legacy of transformative impact on a global scale.”

Tennis Following the Lead of Other Women’s Sports

While the WTA’s maternity program is a major step forward, it follows similar efforts in other professional women’s sports. In recent years, maternity benefits have become a key issue for female athletes.

• The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement guarantees full pay for players during maternity leave.
• FIFA and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) have also expanded their maternity policies.

Former WTA No. 1 Kim Clijsters, a PIF Ambassador, reflected on the lack of support during her playing career:

“Thinking back about my experience in 2008 when I had my daughter, there was no support. I think this is going to be a career-changing opportunity for a lot of players.”

Victoria Azarenka’s Role in Advocating for Change

Former world No. 1 Victoria Azarenka has been at the forefront of advocating for maternity benefits in tennis since she gave birth in 2016. As a member of the WTA Players’ Council, she has worked to secure better protections for athletes balancing motherhood and professional sports.

Azarenka expressed her excitement about the new program:

“This marks the beginning of a meaningful shift in how we support women in tennis, making it easier for athletes to pursue both their careers and their aspirations of starting a family. Ensuring that programs like this exist has been a personal mission of mine, and I’m excited to see the lasting impact it will have for generations to come.”

Conclusion

The introduction of paid maternity leave and family planning benefits represents a landmark moment for women’s professional tennis. While the WTA is catching up to other sports in offering these benefits, the initiative marks a significant improvement in supporting athletes both on and off the court.

As the sport continues to evolve, this program could pave the way for even greater advancements in player welfare and equality in tennis.

FAQs

What benefits does the new WTA maternity program provide?

The program offers up to 12 months of paid maternity leave and grants for fertility treatments, including egg freezing and conception assistance.

Who is eligible for the maternity program?

The WTA confirmed that 320 players will be eligible for these benefits.

Is this the first maternity program in professional women’s sports?

No, but it is the first to be fully funded by an external partner. Other sports, such as the WNBA, FIFA, and NWSL, have implemented maternity policies in recent years.

Why is Saudi Arabia’s involvement controversial?

Some players and critics have raised concerns due to Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. However, PIF maintains that its partnerships aim to enhance sports on a global scale.

How has Victoria Azarenka contributed to this initiative?

Azarenka has been advocating for maternity pay and benefits since giving birth in 2016. She played a key role in securing this program through the WTA Players’ Council.