The former world number one Iga Swiatek has questioned how much say players have in the running of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). In a recent interview, the Polish star assessed the potential reforms to strengthen the women’s tour.

Swiatek was asked about the possibility of a merger between the WTA and the men’s ATP tour. While acknowledging it as more of a business matter, she felt the WTA should focus on improving its marketing and representation first.

Iga Swiatek questions level of player input in WTA governance

The 21-year-old expressed doubts over how much input players have in shaping the WTA’s direction. “It’s supposed to be an organization of players, and we don’t have much to say,” Swiatek remarked. This sentiment suggests a perceived disconnect between the tour’s governance and active competitors.

“I don’t know, because it’s more of a business question. This would have to be analyzed in detail in terms of sponsors, numbers, etc.” she added when asked about a potential merger with the ATP.

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Swiatek acknowledged the challenges of her extended season, often starting competitive play in Abu Dhabi or Dubai in mid-December. “Our season is constantly being extended. We don’t start the season in January because I go to train in Abu Dhabi or Dubai already in mid-December,” she noted. However, she felt this shouldn’t preclude reforms to promote the WTA brand.

“I think we should think about what to do to be stronger as a WTA federation, to be sold better in marketing. I think there is room for improvement,” Swiatek stated.

Swiatek points out room for improvement in WTA

The Pole’s comments indicate a desire for players to have a stronger say in decisions shaping their tour. While open to cooperation with the ATP, Swiatek’s priority was empowering the WTA from within first. Her status as a former world number one lends authority to calls for evaluating how the organization engages with competitors.

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