Brisbane, Australia – World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has sent shockwaves through the tennis world by announcing that she plans to skip multiple events in the 2026 WTA season, prioritising her health over a grueling tour schedule she has openly described as “insane.” The move comes amid growing concerns over player burnout and the relentless pace of professional women’s tennis.
Speaking to the media at the Brisbane International, Sabalenka was candid about the pressures of competing in a schedule that requires top-ranked players to participate in all four Grand Slams, 10 WTA 1000 events, and six WTA 500 tournaments — with fines and ranking penalties looming for noncompliance. She stressed that the physical and mental demands of such a schedule have reached a tipping point, forcing her to take unprecedented steps to safeguard her well-being.
“I have to put my health first,” Sabalenka told reporters. “Last season I played through fatigue and injuries because the schedule left little room for recovery. It’s insane, and it’s not sustainable for anyone.” She indicated that she is willing to face the consequences, including fines or the loss of ranking points, rather than jeopardise her long-term health.
The Belarusian star, a four-time Grand Slam champion, also criticised the tour chiefs, saying that while the WTA has made some efforts to listen to players, the calendar remains overwhelmingly demanding, leaving top athletes little time to rest between events. “We’re human,” she said. “We need breaks. We need time to recover. This year, I’ll be selective about which tournaments I play.”
Sabalenka’s remarks have reignited a debate in the tennis community about whether the WTA’s current structure prioritises commercial interests over player welfare. Analysts and fellow players have long voiced concerns over the 11-month competitive season, noting the increase in injuries, burnout, and mental stress among athletes. The issue has become a focal point in discussions about reforming the women’s tour to better balance competition, rest, and longevity.
Despite potential sanctions, Sabalenka is determined to set a precedent, highlighting the importance of long-term health and career sustainability over short-term gains. Her announcement comes just ahead of the Australian Open, where she is expected to compete, but it signals a strategic approach to managing her 2026 campaign with care.
Her bold stance has drawn widespread attention from fans, media, and tennis authorities, raising questions about how professional tennis can evolve to meet the needs of its top performers without compromising the excitement and competitiveness of the sport. As the WTA prepares for another intense season, all eyes will be on how its leaders respond to Sabalenka’s challenge and the broader call for a more player-friendly schedule.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.