In tennis, motherhood has become an inspiring chapter for many WTA players. Legends like Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters, and Victoria Azarenka have taken maternity leaves and returned stronger. Serena reached four Grand Slam finals after giving birth to Olympia in 2017, while Kim famously won the 2009 US Open with her daughter by her side. But the journey back hasn’t been easy—physical recovery, ranking losses, and childcare logistics remain significant challenges. Naomi Osaka, a new tennis mom, called for paid maternity leave, saying it would be “life-changing” and that “having a kid shouldn’t feel like a punishment.” Echoing what Azarenka had once said along the same lines. Well, good news! Looks like the WTA has heard their pleas!

Now, the WTA has taken a historic step forward. On Thursday, they announced the first-ever paid maternity leave for professional tennis players through a partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). A short Instagram reel revealed the news: “WTA and PIF create the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program, the first-ever paid maternity leave for professional tennis players. A defining moment in women’s sports.” Players like Maria Sakkari, Daria Saville, and Victoria Azarenka joined WTA CEO Portia Archer to celebrate this milestone. Azarenka said in the video, “I’m very excited for the world to see the stepping stone that we’re doing with the WTA and PIF as our partner.”

Notably, Azarenka has been a passionate advocate for better maternity leave policies in tennis. After giving birth to her son Leo in 2016, she emphasized the importance of financial security and distinct policies for maternity leave. These policies, she noted, should be separate from injury-related absences. She described such changes as a “huge win” for women. She encouraged the WTA to lead the way in creating supportive programs for mothers in tennis.

The program offers up to 12 months of paid maternity leave to over 320 eligible players. It also includes grants for fertility treatments like IVF and egg freezing. To qualify, players must meet specific participation criteria over time. Archer explained its purpose: “It’s meant to provide and support women as they look to start their families or broaden their families or continue building their families.”

The WTA says 25 moms are currently active on tour. Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Belinda Bencic recently won a title just months after returning from maternity leave in October. Maria Sakkari noted how this program allows players to “take a little break” for family planning without sacrificing their careers.

This initiative could have helped players like Serena Williams, who returned after giving birth but faced challenges like losing her seeding at the 2018 French Open despite her special ranking. With this momentum, Azarenka called it “a bright new chapter” that can transform lives. It’s certainly a step in the right direction—and it follows closely on the heels of the WTA’s recent rebranding!

WTA announces new rebranding move that could amplify women’s tennis!

The WTA officially launched a bold rebrand, marking a new era for women’s tennis. The iconic purple logo has been replaced with a fresh green design, symbolizing renewal and energy. This transformation is part of the “Rally the World” campaign, which aims to inspire fans and elevate athletes globally. Top players like Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, and Taylor Townsend feature prominently in the campaign. In a powerful promotional video released on February 28, players shared an inspiring message: “This is my stage, to be me. Playing to be me means showing up to the mothers, showing up to the girls, showing up to the women, being a representation for my culture.”

The rebrand reflects not just a visual change but also the WTA’s growing momentum, with attendance rising by 15%, social media followers increasing by 25%, and global viewership reaching 1.1 billion in 2024. Beyond the logo, the rebranding includes updated graphics and visuals. This is set to debut during broadcasts at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells on March 2. The WTA describes this as “a bold new brand identity for a new era,” emphasizing its mission to unite and inspire through tennis. The campaign celebrates diversity and empowerment, with Townsend’s inclusion highlighting her achievements and cultural representation.

While many fans are excited about the changes, reactions have been mixed. However, the WTA remains focused on its mission to grow the sport globally and create a lasting legacy through tennis. With its rebrand and rising popularity, it’s an exciting time for women’s tennis—what do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!