Iga Swiatek, the world’s top-ranked women’s tennis player, has expressed concerns about the demanding WTA calendar and the lack of breaks for players. Despite these concerns, Swiatek plans to continue playing until November unless she sustains an injury.
Swiatek’s comments came after her quarterfinal defeat at the US Open to Jessica Pegula. She highlighted the mandatory tournaments that players are required to participate in, which limits their time for rest and training.
“The schedule is really tough,” Swiatek said. “We have so many mandatory tournaments that we literally need to show up and we don’t have time to work on stuff or live peacefully.”
Swiatek’s concerns are particularly relevant in light of the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, which will add additional pressure to the schedule. She emphasized that the season is “for sure, too long.”
As of the US Open, Swiatek has competed in 15 tournaments in 2024, including United Cup and the Billie Jean King Cup. She is expected to participate in at least two more WTA 1000 tournaments in China before the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia.
Despite her concerns, Swiatek remains committed to playing until November. She will retain her No. 1 ranking through next week regardless of the outcome of the US Open.
Swiatek’s comments have sparked a debate about the need for a more balanced schedule in women’s tennis. Players have expressed concerns about the physical and mental toll of the demanding calendar, which can lead to injuries and burnout.
