PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program
This initiative, supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), marks the first time in women’s sports history that independent, self-employed athletes can access such extensive maternity provisions.
Program Details and Eligibility
The program provides up to 12 months of paid maternity leave for eligible pregnant players. Additionally, those becoming parents through partner pregnancy, surrogacy, or adoption are entitled to two months of paid leave. Beyond leave, the initiative offers grants for fertility treatments, including egg freezing and in vitro fertilization (IVF). More than 320 players are eligible for these benefits, which are retroactive to January 1, 2025.
Player Advocacy and Impact
Victoria Azarenka, a former world No. 1 WTA Players’ Council member, has been a vocal advocate for enhanced maternity support. Reflecting on the program’s launch, Azarenka stated, “This has been my dream of a project for eight years. I’m so happy that it’s finally here.” She emphasized that the initiative allows players to pursue their professional careers and family aspirations without financial strain.
American player Jessica Pegula highlighted the broader implications, noting that advancements in the WTA could influence change across all women’s sports by providing more opportunities and support for female athletes.
A Transformative Shift in Women’s Sports
WTA CEO Portia Archer underscored the program’s significance: “Independent contractors and self-employed individuals don’t typically have these kinds of maternity benefits provided and available to them. This is really sort of novel and groundbreaking.”
The initiative sets a precedent in the sports world, offering financial stability and support to athletes during pivotal moments in their personal lives. It reflects a growing recognition of the need to accommodate the unique challenges faced by female athletes, enabling them to balance professional ambitions with family planning.
Looking Ahead
As women’s sports continue to evolve, the WTA’s maternity fund represents a significant step toward greater inclusivity and support for female athletes. By addressing the complexities of motherhood within professional tennis, the program benefits current players and sets a standard that could inspire similar initiatives across other sports disciplines.
