WTA’s Historic Maternity Leave Program: A Game-Changer for Women’s Tennis
March 6, 2025 — The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has made history by unveiling the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program, a pioneering initiative providing up to 12 months of paid maternity leave and grants for fertility treatments, including IVF and egg freezing. This marks the first time a comprehensive maternity benefits package has been introduced for self-employed athletes in women’s sports.
Key Details of the Program
-
Eligibility: Over 320 WTA players qualify, including those ranked outside the top tiers, ensuring support for athletes at all levels.
-
Funding Source: Fully financed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the program retroactively applies from January 1, 2025.
-
Benefits: Grants cover fertility preservation (e.g., egg freezing) and IVF treatments, addressing gaps faced by players balancing career and family planning.
-
Parental Leave: Two months of paid leave for players becoming parents via partner pregnancy, surrogacy, or adoption.
Player-Driven Advocacy: Victoria Azarenka’s Role
Two-time Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, who welcomed her son in 2016, spearheaded the push for this program as a WTA Players’ Council representative.
“This is just the beginning. It’s incredibly motivating to make this difference. The feedback from players has been incredible—this will change the conversation in sports and beyond,” said Azarenka.
She noted that lower-ranked players, who lack financial security, will benefit most, enabling them to start families without career sacrifices.
WTA and PIF: A Controversial Partnership
The program stems from a multiyear partnership between the WTA and Saudi PIF, despite criticisms over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. WTA CEO Portia Archer defended the collaboration, emphasizing PIF’s support for women’s empowerment through sport.
“This program provides financial resources, flexibility, and support. It’s transformational, especially for players not earning top-tier incomes,” said Archer.
Impact Beyond Tennis
The WTA’s move follows broader trends in women’s sports, where leagues like the WNBA and NWSL have expanded maternity benefits. However, this initiative is groundbreaking for individual sports like tennis, where players lack traditional employer-provided benefits.
Stars like Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, and Caroline Wozniacki have previously navigated motherhood without such support, making this program a monumental shift.
What’s Next?
Azarenka and Archer envision this as the first step toward broader reforms, including childcare support and healthcare initiatives. The program’s success could inspire similar changes in other sports.
Stay updated as the WTA redefines support for women athletes, balancing career and family life.