WTA Introduces Rankings Protect Rule For Players Undergoing Fertility Treatments
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The WTA Tour will protect the rankings of women tennis players taking breaks for egg or embryo freezing.
The WTA Tour announced on Wednesday that women tennis players taking a break from competition to undergo egg or embryo freezing will have their rankings protected. Players ranked between 1 and 750 in singles or doubles who are absent from competition for at least 10 consecutive weeks for a 'fertility preservation procedure" qualify for this protection. This special ranking can be used for entry into up to three tournaments, excluding Premier 1000 events. The protected ranking will be calculated based on the player's average WTA ranking over a 12-week period, starting eight weeks prior to the commencement of their break.
2017 US Open champion, Sloane Stephens, told the BBC that this rule change would alleviate pressure on players to return to competition prematurely. Stephens revealed she had previously utilised the off-season twice for egg freezing.
In the WTA statement, the 32-year-old expressed pride in the sport's recognition of the importance of fertility treatments for female athletes. She acknowledged the nuanced and complex discussion surrounding career and family life, highlighting the WTA's creation of a supportive environment for players to explore their options and make informed decisions.
The WTA stated that the 'Fertility Preservation Special Entry Ranking Rule" would augment existing benefits, assisting players in balancing their tennis careers and family aspirations.
WTA CEO, Portia Archer, acknowledged the potential dilemma faced by professional athletes regarding career and family. She reaffirmed the WTA's dedication to supporting players as they navigate these important life choices.
First Published:
June 11, 2025, 21:49 IST
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