“I would be delighted”: Spanish tennis star wants women to play five sets

Friday, 25 September 2026 at 08:30

Sara Sorribes Tormo has thrown her support behind one of tennis' recurring debates: whether women should also play five-set singles matches at Grand Slams. The format has traditionally been reserved for men's singles at the four major tournaments, but the difference continues to generate discussion about whether women should also have the opportunity to compete in longer matches.

The Spaniard discussed the issue in an interview with RNE Deportes, explaining why she believes the longer format creates a different type of contest and can give players more margin during difficult moments. For Sorribes Tormo, the additional sets would not simply make matches longer, but could also change the tactical and mental dynamics of a Grand Slam battle.

Sorribes Tormo, a former world No.32, is currently representing Spain at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals. She played doubles as Spain secured its place in the 2026 semifinals and is now preparing for the next stage of the team's campaign, adding another team competition to a season in which she has continued to contribute for her country.

Given her reputation for long, physically demanding matches, the possibility of playing five sets is one Sorribes Tormo would welcome rather than avoid. The Spaniard has built much of her game around consistency, movement and endurance, making her particularly comfortable in matches that develop into extended physical battles.

Sorribes Tormo wants five-set matches

The 29-year-old first pointed to the tactical and psychological differences created by the longer format, particularly the extra room it gives players to recover after difficult stretches.

“And that also allows them to have a certain peace of mind at certain times, which is why I think that many times they reach quarterfinals, semifinals, finals, because they have that little more margin,” Sorribes Tormo said.

Asked whether she would personally like to play five-set matches, the Spaniard had little hesitation. “I, yes, but of course, I don't talk much because my matches are usually very long and I usually feel very good physically, but if I could play five sets, I would be delighted to play them,” she said.

Women's singles at the four Grand Slam tournaments are currently played as best-of-three, while men's singles are best-of-five. The difference has long been part of the broader discussion about the formats used across the sport.

Sorribes Tormo believes the distinction is significant enough to change the nature of the competition. “Therefore, I am totally in favor because I think they are very, very different games,” she concluded.

Her own career provides some context for that view. Sorribes Tormo reached a career-high No.32 in 2022 and has built her game around consistency, movement and extended baseline exchanges. She has also remained an important option for Spain in doubles and team competition.

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Spain prepares for BJK Cup semifinal

Sorribes Tormo's comments come at an important moment for Spain, with the team preparing for its 2026 Billie Jean King Cup semifinal against Czechia in Shenzhen. Spain reached the last four for the first time since 2008 after beating Kazakhstan 2-1 in the quarterfinals, ending an 18-year wait for another semifinal appearance.

The former world No.32 played a decisive role in that victory. With the tie level at 1-1 after Jessica Bouzas Maneiro beat Sonja Zhiyenbayeva and Yulia Putintseva defeated Cristina Bucsa, Sorribes Tormo and Bucsa were sent out for the deciding doubles match. The Spanish pair responded under pressure to beat Anna Danilina and Zhibek Kulambayeva 6-2, 7-5 and send Spain into the semifinals.

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It was far from straightforward. Kazakhstan created 20 break points during the deciding doubles match, but converted only two, while Sorribes Tormo and Bucsa took five of the eight opportunities they created. The second set alone lasted around 90 minutes, underlining the kind of physical and mental battle that Sorribes had been discussing when making her case for five-set matches.

The result sets up a semifinal against Czechia on Friday, with Spain now two wins away from its first Billie Jean King Cup title since 1998. The Czech team features Linda Noskova and Karolina Muchova among its nominated players, while Spain will again have Sorribes Tormo among its options.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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