WTA Players to Receive Paid Maternity Leave in Groundbreaking Program
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has launched a groundbreaking program providing paid maternity leave for its players, effective retroactively to January 1. Financed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the initiative marks a first in women’s professional sports by offering comprehensive maternity benefits to independent athletes.
300+ WTA Players Eligible for 12-Month Paid Leave
More than 300 WTA players will be eligible for up to 12 months of paid maternity leave during pregnancy. The program extends support to players experiencing motherhood through other avenues, such as partner pregnancy or adoption, providing financial assistance during a two-month parental leave, nonetheless of match play.
WTA Chief Hails ”game-Changing” Initiative
WTA chief Portia Archer described the program as ”game-changing,” emphasizing that independent contractors typically do not qualify for such benefits. “This initiative will provide current and future generations of players with the support and flexibility to explore family life, in whatever form and whenever they choose,” she stated.
Program includes Fertility Treatments, Medical Support
beyond paid leave, the program aims to facilitate access to medical advice and fertility treatments, including in-vitro fertilization. Viktoria Azarenka, a player representative on the WTA Council, told The Guardian that player reactions have been overwhelmingly positive.
Saudi Investment Fund’s Involvement Sparks “sportswashing” Concerns
The PIF’s investment in the WTA program is part of a broader move into tennis, including high-profile exhibition tournaments and hosting the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia last year. However, this investment has drawn scrutiny amid accusations of “sportswashing,” with human rights organizations raising concerns that Saudi Arabia seeks to divert attention from its human rights record.
Amnesty International: Women’s Rights still Severely Restricted in Saudi arabia
Amnesty International has criticized Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, particularly regarding women. Despite some reforms, the institution notes that the guardianship system remains in place, treating adult women like minors and subjecting them to male control. this system, according to Amnesty, continues to negatively impact all aspects of women’s lives and severely restricts their fundamental freedoms.
Amnesty reports that even with the recent allowance of women obtaining their own passports,there’s an increasing number of women fleeing the country to escape oppression and rigid moral codes. Furthermore, women’s rights activists and their supporters face persecution from the regime.
25 Mothers Currently Competing on the WTA Tour
The WTA reports that there are currently 25 mothers actively competing on the tour. Belinda bencic’s recent title win in Abu Dhabi, just four months after her maternity leave, highlights the potential for players to return to accomplished careers after motherhood.
Several other top players, including Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, Kim Clijsters, Caroline Wozniacki, and Victoria Azarenka, have previously returned to the tour after having children.
**While the article highlights positive player reactions, what potential challenges or drawbacks might arise from this program, notably regarding player participation, eligibility criteria, or potential conflicts of interest?**
WTA Players to Receive Paid Maternity Leave in Groundbreaking Program
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has launched a groundbreaking program providing paid maternity leave for its players, effective retroactively to January 1. Financed by Saudi arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF),the initiative marks a first in women’s professional sports by offering complete maternity benefits to independent athletes.
300+ WTA Players Eligible for 12-Month Paid Leave
More than 300 WTA players will be eligible for up to 12 months of paid maternity leave during pregnancy. the program extends support to players experiencing motherhood through other avenues, such as partner pregnancy or adoption, providing financial assistance during a two-month parental leave, nonetheless of match play.
WTA Chief hails ”game-Changing” initiative
WTA chief Portia Archer described the program as ”game-changing,” emphasizing that independent contractors typically do not qualify for such benefits. “This initiative will provide current and future generations of players with the support and adaptability to explore family life, in whatever form and whenever they choose,” she stated.
Program includes Fertility Treatments, Medical Support
beyond paid leave, the program aims to facilitate access to medical advice and fertility treatments, including in-vitro fertilization.Viktoria Azarenka, a player representative on the WTA Council, told The Guardian that player reactions have been overwhelmingly positive.
Saudi Investment Fund’s Involvement Sparks “sportswashing” Concerns
The PIF’s investment in the WTA program is part of a broader move into tennis, including high-profile exhibition tournaments and hosting the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia last year. Though, this investment has drawn scrutiny amid accusations of “sportswashing,” with human rights organizations raising concerns that Saudi Arabia seeks to divert attention from its human rights record.
Amnesty International: Women’s Rights still Severely Restricted in Saudi arabia
Amnesty International has criticized Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, particularly regarding women. Despite some reforms, the institution notes that the guardianship system remains in place, treating adult women like minors and subjecting them to male control. this system, according to Amnesty, continues to negatively impact all aspects of women’s lives and severely restricts their fundamental freedoms.
Amnesty reports that even with the recent allowance of women obtaining their own passports,there’s an increasing number of women fleeing the country to escape oppression and rigid moral codes. Moreover, women’s rights activists and their supporters face persecution from the regime.
25 Mothers Currently competing on the WTA Tour
The WTA reports that there are currently 25 mothers actively competing on the tour. Belinda bencic’s recent title win in Abu Dhabi, just four months after her maternity leave, highlights the potential for players to return to accomplished careers after motherhood.
Several other top players, including Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, Kim Clijsters, Caroline Wozniacki, and Victoria Azarenka, have previously returned to the tour after having children.
Q&A: WTA Maternity Leave Program
Here’s a breakdown of the WTA’s new maternity leave program, addressing key questions and concerns:
Q: How long is the paid maternity leave?
A: Players are eligible for up to 12 months of paid maternity leave.
Q: Who is eligible for the parental leave benefits?
A: Over 300 WTA players are eligible, including those who become mothers through pregnancy, partner pregnancy, or adoption. There is also a two-month paid parental leave for other parental situations.
Q: How is this program funded?
A: The program is financed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Q: What other benefits are included in this program?
A: The program offers medical advice and access to fertility treatments, including in-vitro fertilization.
Q: What is “sportswashing,” and why is it relevant here?
A: “Sportswashing” is the practice of using sports to improve a country’s or institution’s image, often to divert attention from human rights concerns. Amnesty International raises concerns about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, particularly regarding women, and suggests the PIF’s investment in the WTA program could be a form of sportswashing.
Q: How has the program been received by WTA players?
A: viktoria Azarenka, a player representative, reported overwhelmingly positive reactions from players.
Q: Are there other professional sports leagues offering similar maternity benefits?
A: While the article states this is a first in women’s professional sports, other leagues may offer some form of maternity or parental leave. Such as, the WNBA provides maternity leave and support for players.
Q: how has this program impacted players’ careers?
A: Belinda Bencic’s recent title win after a maternity leave demonstrates the potential for players to return to accomplished careers after childbirth. Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters, and Victoria Azarenka have previously returned to the tour after having children.
This groundbreaking initiative offers unprecedented support, allowing players to balance their careers and family aspirations. Learn more about the WTA and its commitment to its players.
