Game changer: WTA launches historic fertility protection rule for players

The WTA has announced new fertility protection rules, introducing a Special Eligibility Ranking Rule for players undergoing fertility protection procedures. This follows the recent establishment of the PFA WTA Maternity Fund Program, with Victoria Azarenka serving as spokesperson for the Player's Council.

The new rule will allow players to have a protected ranking while undergoing fertility preservation processes, such as egg or embryo freezing. All players within the Top 750 – in both singles and doubles – are eligible.

To qualify for this new rule, players must spend at least 10 consecutive weeks off the courts for fertility preservation. Upon their return, they will be able to enter up to three tournaments in the WTA 500, 250, and 125 categories, based on their 12-week average ranking.

WTA CEO Portia Archer praised the new measure, which will allow players to take career breaks without significantly impacting their rankings. “After hearing clearly from players that the option of fertility protection offers a proactive way to balance family goals and career ambitions, we’re delighted that this new measure, alongside our existing package of benefits, will contribute to enabling our athletes to realize their full potential and become parents at a time of their choice.”

Former US Open champion Sloane Stephens previously used the off-season twice to freeze her eggs. “During my first retrieval cycle, I ended up gaining around 20lbs due to hormones and taking a break from training that, going forward, I would be more aware of and plan differently for my next cycle this off-season,” she told Essence a year ago.

The American tennis player is now part of the WTA's statement on the new rule. “I’m incredibly proud of our sport in recognizing the importance of fertility treatments for female athletes. For any woman, the conversation of family life versus a career is nuanced and complex,” the former world No. 3 said. “The WTA has now created a safe space for players to explore options and to make the best decisions for themselves. It’s truly groundbreaking and will empower this generation, and future generations of players, to continue with the sport they love without having to compromise.”