Coco Gauff has added her voice to growing concerns about the demanding length of the tennis calendar. Saying it is “impossible” for players to compete in more events than they already do. Speaking after reaching the quarterfinals at the China Open. The American star stressed that the sport’s packed schedule is taking a toll on athletes’ health.
Her comments came just a day after world number two Iga Swiatek criticized the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) for its mandatory requirements. At the Beijing tournament, five players were forced to retire injured on the same day, further highlighting the issue. Gauff, who is the defending champion in China and a two-time Grand Slam winner, insisted that change is overdue.
“With more tournaments being extended to two weeks, it doesn’t make sense to keep straining our bodies,” Gauff explained. “I hope that during my time on tour, a solution is found to shorten the season.”
Currently, the WTA obliges top players to compete in all four Grand Slams, 10 WTA 1000 events, including Beijing, and six 500-level tournaments. While this benefits the business side of the sport, many players feel it sacrifices their long-term health. “From a business standpoint it might work, but from a health standpoint, I don’t agree,” Gauff admitted. “I’ve already played as much tennis as I physically can.”
Swiatek went a step further, calling the mandatory schedule “pretty crazy” and even suggested she may skip events to protect herself. Other stars, including Novak Djokovic, have also reduced their participation in tournaments to preserve longevity.
As the debate grows louder, more top players are pushing for a restructured tennis calendar. Both Gauff and Swiatek believe that protecting athletes’ bodies should come before expanding tournaments—and their calls are sparking renewed pressure for reform.
