WTA Introduces Historic Maternity Benefits for Female Tennis Players
The new program offers 12 months of paid maternity leave and fertility treatment grants, marking a groundbreaking step for self-employed athletes.
- The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has announced a Maternity Fund Program, providing 12 months of paid maternity leave for eligible players.
- The initiative, supported by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, also includes grants for fertility treatments such as egg freezing and IVF.
- This is the first comprehensive maternity benefits program in women's sports for self-employed athletes, addressing long-standing challenges for tennis players balancing motherhood and careers.
- WTA CEO Portia Archer emphasized the importance of supporting players who wish to become parents without sacrificing their professional aspirations.
- Notable tennis moms, including Victoria Azarenka, Naomi Osaka, and Belinda Bencic, have highlighted the impact of these benefits on career longevity and gender equity in sports.