Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is financing a WTA initiative that offers up to 12 months of paid maternity leave to over 320 eligible players. The program includes grants for fertility treatments and requires players to compete in a certain number of tournaments. Tennis stars like Belinda Bencic and Victoria Azarenka support this historic advancement, highlighting its significance for female athletes seeking to balance careers and family.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia is set to sponsor a WTA initiative that will provide paid maternity leave of up to 12 months for players on the women’s tennis circuit. This groundbreaking program is designed to benefit over 320 eligible WTA players, as announced by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).

In addition to maternity leave, players will also have access to grants for fertility treatments, along with other supportive benefits. However, to qualify for these payments, players must compete in a specified number of WTA tournaments within a designated timeframe.

Belinda Bencic, a Swiss player and Olympic gold medalist, applauded this initiative, acknowledging it as a significant step for female athletes considering motherhood while maintaining their professional tennis careers. She expressed pride in the WTA’s pioneering role in supporting women in sports.

Victoria Azarenka, a two-time Grand Slam champion and WTA players’ council representative, heralded the initiative as a meaningful advancement in the support of women in tennis, making it easier for athletes to balance their careers and family aspirations. According to WTA CEO Portia Archer, this program will provide essential support and flexibility for both current and future players pursuing family life.

Historically, several high-profile players have taken breaks to start families, with varied effects on their careers. While some, like Kim Clijsters, have successfully returned to win Grand Slam titles post-motherhood, others, including Serena Williams, faced challenges in regaining their top form after childbirth. 25 active players on the WTA circuit are currently mothers, highlighting the growing presence of parents in professional tennis.

Despite criticism regarding its record on women’s rights, Saudi Arabia has increasingly invested in tennis and recently hosted the WTA Finals in Riyadh. The kingdom is set to continue this trend by hosting the WTA Finals again in 2025 and 2026, following a multi-year partnership with the PIF.

The introduction of the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program marks a remarkable advancement in women’s tennis, offering maternity leave and support for family planning to over 320 players. This initiative not only addresses the challenges faced by female athletes but also signifies a broader commitment to support women’s rights in sports. The involvement of notable players like Belinda Bencic and Victoria Azarenka in advocating for such reforms emphasizes the importance of flexibility in balancing professional and family life, paving the way for future generations of athletes.

Original Source: www.news18.com

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