Poland’s Iga Swiatek, currently ranked world number two in tennis, has voiced concerns over the intensity of the current season. She stated that the lengthy schedule is impacting player health, prompting her to consider skipping mandatory events in the future for her well-being.
Swiatek’s Warnings on Season Length
During a recent match at the China Open held at the Beijing Olympic Green Tennis Center on September 27, 2025, Swiatek reflected on the demanding nature of the tennis calendar. The season, which spans 11 months, has faced scrutiny, particularly during the Asian swing, where five players retired due to injury.
Player Health and Mandatory Tournaments
Swiatek expressed her concerns, emphasizing that the pressure to participate in all mandatory tournaments can be overwhelming. “I think people are more fatigued,” she remarked, noting the difficulty of maintaining performance late in the season. She indicated that managing tournament participation may be necessary as her career progresses.
- Top players are required to compete in:
- All four Grand Slam tournaments
- Ten WTA 1000 events
- Six WTA 500 events
The penalties for missing these events can include ranking point deductions and fines, adding to the stress athletes face. Despite these challenges, Swiatek has committed to fulfilling her obligations this year.
WTA’s Response to Player Concerns
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has acknowledged these concerns, stating that athlete welfare is a priority. They are assessing feedback from players to improve the tour’s structure for 2024, including a proposed $400 million increase in compensation over the next decade.
“These enhancements aim to offer greater predictability regarding event participation without increasing the average number of events players commit to each season,” the WTA stated. This approach also intends to create more opportunities for aspiring players.
Ongoing Legal Challenges
The Professional Tennis Players’ Association has challenged the current governing structure through a lawsuit, claiming the situation is unsustainable. Although the WTA labeled this lawsuit as “baseless,” the ongoing dialogue regarding player welfare continues to shape the future of professional tennis.
As the season progresses, Swiatek’s insights spotlight the critical balance between competitive participation and athlete health in professional sports.
