‘We Don’t Have Much to Say’- Frustrated Iga Swiatek Calls Out WTA Over Hectic Scheduling Amid Cancun Row

‘We Don’t Have Much to Say’ – Frustrated Iga Swiatek Calls Out WTA Over Hectic Scheduling Amid Cancun Row

Nov 2, 2023 | 3:42 PM EDT

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The former world number one Iga Swiatek has questioned how much say players have in the running of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). In a recent interview, the Polish star assessed the potential reforms to strengthen the women’s tour.

Swiatek was asked about the possibility of a merger between the WTA and the men’s ATP tour. While acknowledging it as more of a business matter, she felt the WTA should focus on improving its marketing and representation first.

Iga Swiatek questions level of player input in WTA governance

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The 21-year-old expressed doubts over how much input players have in shaping the WTA’s direction. “It’s supposed to be an organization of players, and we don’t have much to say,” Swiatek remarked. This sentiment suggests a perceived disconnect between the tour’s governance and active competitors.

“I don’t know, because it’s more of a business question. This would have to be analyzed in detail in terms of sponsors, numbers, etc.” she added when asked about a potential merger with the ATP.

Swiatek acknowledged the challenges of her extended season, often starting competitive play in Abu Dhabi or Dubai in mid-December. “Our season is constantly being extended. We don’t start the season in January because I go to train in Abu Dhabi or Dubai already in mid-December,” she noted. However, she felt this shouldn’t preclude reforms to promote the WTA brand.

“I think we should think about what to do to be stronger as a WTA federation, to be sold better in marketing. I think there is room for improvement,” Swiatek stated.

Swiatek points out room for improvement in WTA

The Pole’s comments indicate a desire for players to have a stronger say in decisions shaping their tour. While open to cooperation with the ATP, Swiatek’s priority was empowering the WTA from within first. Her status as a former world number one lends authority to calls for evaluating how the organization engages with competitors.

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Swiatek has brought attention to an important issue around player representation in WTA governance. As one of the top-ranked stars in the women’s game, her perspective deserves consideration.

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It remains to be seen if the tour will undertake reforms to address Swiatek’s concerns. However, in questioning how much say competitors have, she has started a discussion around balancing business and competitive priorities. With a dominant voice, the 21-year-old can influence positive change for fellow athletes and help strengthen the WTA brand from the player side. How the organization responds will impact its relationship with stars central to its commercial success.

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