Success in any profession is challenging for women, and this challenge is amplified in the world of sports. Female athletes often struggle to balance their careers with motherhood.
Sports News: The discussion surrounding the careers of female tennis players has taken a new turn. The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has taken a revolutionary and historic step by announcing that it will protect the rankings of female players undergoing reproductive procedures. This decision is not only a significant step towards gender equality in sports but also grants female athletes the freedom to balance their personal lives and careers.
Bridging the Gap Between Career and Motherhood
It has often been observed that when female athletes make decisions related to motherhood or reproduction, they are forced to take a break from the sport. During this time, their world rankings decline, requiring them to start over upon their return. Now, under this WTA decision, top-750 female players undergoing any reproductive treatment or procedure, such as egg freezing, surrogacy, or IVF, will be allowed to participate in tournaments based on their previous ranking.
What is the new WTA rule?
According to the WTA, players will be able to participate in tournaments under the Special Entry Ranking (SER). This special ranking will be calculated based on the average ranking at the time the player was absent from the game. This ranking can be used for direct entry into three WTA tournaments. This WTA decision will give players the opportunity to return to the court fully healthy and prepared, rather than forcing them into a hasty comeback.
Sloane Stephens Welcomes the Decision
Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion and former WTA Players' Council member, described this decision as a step taken with "deep understanding and sensitivity" in women's sports. She stated, “Every person's body is different. Someone can return in a week, someone in three months. It's crucial that female players are given the freedom to make decisions based on their physical and mental condition.”
Stephens had previously raised the issue that players should be given protected rankings during procedures like egg freezing so they can return later without penalty.
Introduction of Paid Maternity Leave and Grants
The WTA has not limited itself to protected rankings; it has also introduced paid maternity leave for players. Starting in 2024, over 320 players will now be eligible for up to 12 months of paid leave. Most significantly, the payment will not depend on the players' ranking; everyone will receive equal financial assistance.
In addition, the WTA has begun providing financial grants to players for the cost of reproductive treatments such as IVF, egg freezing, etc. This will provide players with a secure emotional, physical, and financial environment.
This WTA initiative frees female athletes from the burden of compromising between motherhood and their careers. This decision proves that modern sports organizations are now prepared to understand and address the real needs of female athletes. This initiative will set an inspiring example for inclusivity and equality in sports.
