Iga Swiatek Highlights Grueling WTA Schedule Amid Top Players’ Struggles

In recent tournaments, top Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) players, including Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, and Aryna Sabalenka, have faced unexpected challenges, leading to early exits and surprising defeats. Swiatek attributes these struggles to the demanding WTA calendar, which she believes hampers players’ performance and consistency.

Swiatek, who experienced quarter-final and semi-final losses in the Middle East swing, emphasized the difficulties posed by the tight schedule. She pointed out that frequent transitions between continents, surfaces, and equipment leave players with insufficient time to adapt and prepare adequately. This sentiment is echoed by Sabalenka, who cited a lack of focus and motivation due to the taxing nature of the tour as factors in her recent performances.

The congested calendar not only affects physical readiness but also impacts mental focus, as players struggle to maintain peak performance amid constant travel and minimal recovery periods. As the clay court season approaches, Swiatek and her peers hope for adjustments that allow for better preparation and recovery, aiming to regain their form ahead of major tournaments like the French Open in May.

The WTA has yet to respond to these concerns, but the players’ experiences highlight the need for a more balanced schedule that prioritizes athlete well-being alongside competitive demands.