WTA Expands Fertility and Maternity Leave Policies

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has introduced a policy allowing female players who undergo fertility protection procedures, such as egg or embryo freezing, to return from at least 10 weeks of leave with a protected ranking. The Special Entry Ranking (SER) applies to players ranked in the top 750 and can be used to enter up to three tournaments, but not 1000-level events. The protected ranking is calculated based on a player's 12-week average prior to their leave. The new rule is part of the WTA’s broader family-friendly reforms, which include up to 12 months of paid maternity leave and fertility treatment grants, funded by the Saudi Public Investment Fund. The initiative is intended to reduce pressure on athletes to return prematurely and help balance family planning with tennis careers. WTA CEO Portia Archer highlighted the organization's commitment to supporting athletes' personal and professional needs.