Swiatek recently clinched her first WTA Finals title in Cancun, Mexico, successfully regaining her top ranking and securing her second consecutive year-end No. 1 finish. However, her triumph was overshadowed by apprehensions regarding the revamped 2024 schedule.
The forthcoming season will see a substantial increase in the number of WTA 1000 events, totaling 10, with seven spanning two weeks. Additionally, four new WTA 500 events are slated to be introduced, bringing the total to 17. This expansion also implies more mandatory WTA 1000 events for players.
Swiatek expressed her frustration with the demanding schedule and criticized the WTA for failing to involve players in the decision-making process. She stressed the need for open communication between players and the WTA to reach a compromise regarding the taxing schedule.
In a press conference, Swiatek stated, “We are participating in a season that is very taxing, and the next one will be even more intense. We feel like we’re beating our heads against the wall. Everything has already been decided without consulting us, and now we are looking for a solution how we can reach a compromise.”
She also emphasized the importance of the WTA sharing its plans with players before making decisions, as the organization is meant to represent women’s players. Swiatek and fellow players have taken steps to form a collective voice and seek joint action to address their concerns.
Boris Becker, the former tennis champion, endorsed Swiatek’s comments by resharing a post from the Novak Djokovic-led PTPA’s social media handle. The post featured Swiatek’s remarks and commended her for speaking out.
Swiatek’s stance highlights the ongoing dialogue between players and tennis governing bodies about the demands and scheduling challenges faced by professional athletes, particularly as the sport continues to evolve and grow.
The tennis community will be closely watching how these discussions unfold and whether they lead to adjustments in the WTA schedule for the benefit of the players’ well-being and the overall quality of the sport.
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Iga Swiatek is definitely the top female tennis player. She is so young that by the end of her career will overtake Serena Williams for sure.