Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) will finance a new initiative providing up to 12 months of paid maternity leave to eligible WTA players. This ground-breaking program aims to support over 320 players and includes grants for fertility treatments, marking a significant step towards aiding female athletes in balancing their professional careers with family life.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has announced funding for a pioneering initiative with the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) that will provide paid maternity leave for players on the women’s tennis circuit. This initiative will offer benefits to over 320 eligible WTA players, facilitating maternity leave of up to 12 months. Additionally, players will have access to grants for fertility treatments, thus combining family aspirations with their professional careers.
To qualify for these benefits, players must compete in a specific number of WTA tournaments within a designated timeframe. Belinda Bencic, an Olympic gold medalist, expressed her enthusiasm for this initiative, stating that it is significant for players contemplating starting a family. She emphasized that it allows lower-ranked players to manage the time away from the sport while assuring their return.
Victoria Azarenka, a two-time Grand Slam winner and representative of the WTA players’ council, also welcomed this development, noting it represents a critical shift in supporting female athletes. She highlighted the importance of balancing careers with family life, a cause she has personally championed since giving birth in 2016. WTA CEO Portia Archer reinforced that the initiative is designed to empower both current and future generations of female players to explore family life alongside their careers.
Historically, several top players have returned to professional tennis after becoming mothers, with varying impacts on their careers. Active players, such as Kim Clijsters and Naomi Osaka, have successfully resumed competitive play post-motherhood, while Serena Williams faced challenges after having her first child. Despite scrutiny regarding women’s rights, Saudi Arabia has made concerted efforts to enhance its investment in tennis, including hosting significant events such as the WTA Finals.
This initiative signifies a progressive step towards supporting female athletes in blending professional sports with family responsibilities, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and career longevity.
In summary, the PIF’s initiative to fund maternity leave for WTA players marks a historic advancement in women’s tennis, benefiting over 320 athletes and promoting family life alongside professional responsibilities. The response from players indicates strong support for this initiative, which reflects a significant shift in the sports landscape, enabling female athletes to balance their careers with motherhood. This move also signifies Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving its image in terms of women’s rights within the world of sports.
Original Source: www.news18.com
