WTA Players Divided on Grand Slam Five-Set Match Proposal

INDIAN WELLS, Calif. - A proposal to extend women's Grand Slam matches to best-of-five sets from the quarter-finals onward has divided top WTA players.

USTA CEO Craig Tiley supports the idea, suggesting it could boost audience interest. However, many players, including Iga Swiatek, question the timing in an era of diminishing attention spans. "It's a weird approach in the world where everything is becoming faster," Swiatek stated. She also raised concerns about player fatigue and the need to adapt training and calendars.

Elena Rybakina echoed these sentiments, expressing reluctance to play best-of-five matches. Conversely, Coco Gauff believes the change could favor her physical strength but prefers consistency across the entire tournament if implemented. World number one Aryna Sabalenka enthusiastically endorsed the proposal, confident in her physical ability and potential to win more Grand Slams.