Victoria Azarenka emphasises need for further 'stability' and 'financial security' for returning mothers as Osaka and Kerber set for comeback
Tennis NewsSunday, 31 December 2023 at 11:30
Former world number one has called for more financial security
for women tennis player, especially for those who recently became mothers.
Two former world number ones — Japan’s Naomi Osaka and Germany’s
Angelique Kerber — are expected to return to the court in 2024 after giving
birth recently. Azarenka, who is a two-time Grand Slam winner, was recently
quoted in a report where she stated that she is excited to see players of such
quality returning to action but also calls on authorities to find a way to
bring more financial stability, especially for more players who became mothers.
"I'm very excited to see players are coming back,"
said the 34-year-old. "I've said it few years ago already. I think we
broke the stereotype that you be an athlete and have family. This definitely
has been broken. It's actually evolved more and more.
“The testament of that is how many players are feeling
comfortable and confident coming back and continue being on tour. I believe
that we still have a lot more growth to do in that space to continue to push
forward being a women's leading sport.
"How we can make our athletes feel more secure, more
comfortable at all levels, not just top level. At lower levels, where they have
that stability, financial security to keep coming back. I think we have an
opportunity to do that in women's sports like maybe not before. I hope we put
the right resources into that."
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.
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