A Milestone for Women's Tennis, but with an Aftertaste

Paid Maternity Leave: A First in Women's Sports

In a groundbreaking move, the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has announced paid maternity leave for its players, a first in the history of professional women's sports. Eligible players can receive up to 12 months of paid leave for childbirth, and two months for adoption or surrogacy, along with potential allowances for fertility treatments. This program, retroactive to January 1, 2024, covers over 320 players and signifies a major step towards supporting athletes during this crucial life stage.

While the exact financial details and eligibility requirements regarding tournament participation remain undisclosed, the WTA has confirmed a standardized payment amount irrespective of world ranking. This landmark initiative is fully funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The Saudi Connection: Sportswashing Concerns

While the WTA's announcement is undoubtedly a positive development, the involvement of Saudi Arabia's PIF raises concerns about sportswashing. Critics argue that this investment is a strategic move by the Saudi government to bolster its international image and deflect attention from its human rights record. This mirrors Saudi Arabia’s increasing involvement in other sports like football, golf, and Formula 1, raising ethical questions about accepting funding from such sources.

A Growing Trend: Mothers Returning to Professional Tennis

The WTA's new policy comes at a time when more female tennis players are returning to the court after childbirth. High-profile examples include Serena Williams, Angelique Kerber, and Naomi Osaka. While these top players were financially secure during their maternity leave, lower-ranked players often face significant financial strain. The WTA estimates around 25 mothers currently compete on the tour, highlighting the need for such support systems.

Global Momentum for Maternity Leave in Sports

The WTA's decision follows a wave of positive changes for mothers in sports worldwide.

Since late 2020, FIFA mandates a minimum of 14 weeks of paid maternity leave for footballers, protecting them from dismissal and allowing for club changes outside transfer windows. German goalkeeper Almuth Schult, a mother of three, became the first beneficiary of this updated rule in mid-2024.

Canada and the UK have also implemented financial aid programs for pregnant athletes and new mothers. Canada's Athletes Assistance Program (AAP) provides dedicated funding, while the UK offers support to non-professional athletes with international aspirations. Similarly, the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) offers scholarships and health insurance, with the US Athletics Federation (USATF) recently extending support beyond the initial one-year postpartum period.

Furthermore, the WNBA provides full basic salary during pregnancy, with additional subsidies for artificial insemination for veteran players. The Allyson Felix case in 2019 highlighted the struggles of pregnant athletes with sponsors, ultimately leading to improved contract protections for expectant mothers with Nike.

These initiatives collectively signify a growing recognition of the need for comprehensive support systems for female athletes navigating motherhood and seeking to return to competition.