**WTA Introduces Ranking Protection for Female Athletes Undergoing Fertility Procedures**
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has announced a significant new policy aimed at supporting female tennis players who take time off for fertility protection procedures. This initiative, revealed on Wednesday, allows players to utilize a special entry ranking (SER) for up to three tournaments if they choose to undergo procedures such as egg or embryo freezing.
By implementing this ranking protection, the WTA aims to empower women athletes to balance their professional careers with family planning, allowing them to make choices that best suit their personal lives. The tour emphasized that this measure is part of a broader commitment to support female players in their journey to motherhood.
This new policy complements the WTA’s existing Family Focus Program, which already provides ranking protection during pregnancy and postpartum support. It also follows the announcement made in March regarding 12 months of paid maternity leave for players on tour.
Sloane Stephens, the 2017 U.S. Open champion, expressed her pride in the sport for recognizing the importance of fertility treatments for female athletes. She noted the complexities women face when balancing family life and career, stating that the WTA has created a supportive environment for players to explore their options without feeling pressured to return to competition prematurely.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Stephens shared the challenges she faced under previous regulations. She emphasized the importance of having a protected ranking, which allows players to prioritize their health and well-being during recovery from fertility procedures.
The SER will be calculated based on the 12-week average of a player’s WTA ranking from eight weeks prior to their out-of-competition period, ensuring that athletes can maintain their competitive standing while focusing on their personal health.
In conclusion, the WTA’s new policy marks a groundbreaking step in supporting female athletes, allowing them to pursue their dreams in both sports and family life without compromise.
**FAQ**
**What is the new WTA policy regarding fertility procedures?**
The WTA has introduced a special entry ranking (SER) for female players who take time off for fertility protection procedures, allowing them to maintain their rankings for up to three tournaments.
