Tennis player Sabalenka criticizes tournament scheduling by tennis chiefs

Belarusian Tennis Star Aryna Sabalenka Announces Plans to Skip Events in 2026

World number one tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has stated that she expects to skip events in the upcoming season due to concerns over her health and well-being. According to Sabalenka, the current rules governing the tennis calendar are “insane” and prioritize the interests of the sport’s administrators over those of the players.

Under WTA Tour rules, top players are required to compete in all four Grand Slams, 10 WTA 1000 tournaments, and six WTA 500 events. Sabalenka has already faced penalties for missing some of these events in 2025, including ranking points deductions and fines.

In a recent interview, Sabalenka expressed her frustration with the current system, stating that she had struggled with injuries and exhaustion last season despite maintaining consistent results. She plans to take steps to manage her schedule better in 2026, but acknowledges that it will be difficult to avoid all mandatory events.

Other top players, including men’s world number one Carlos Alcaraz, have also expressed concerns about the length of the tennis season and its impact on player health. The WTA Tour has faced criticism for its 11-month calendar, with many players citing injuries as a major issue.

Sabalenka’s comments highlight the challenges faced by professional tennis players in balancing their competitive obligations with their physical well-being. As the sport continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the WTA Tour will respond to these concerns and adapt its rules to prioritize player welfare.

Source: Al Jazeera