World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has confirmed that she plans to skip several tournaments during the 2026 season in order to manage her physical wellbeing, even if it means facing penalties or losing ranking points under current WTA rules.
In a statement after her triumph at the Brisbane International, the Belarusian star explained that she intends to be more selective with her tournament schedule in 2026, prioritising recovery and long-term health over playing a packed calendar. While top-ranked players are contractually obliged to appear in all four Grand Slams, ten WTA 1000 events, and six WTA 500 tournaments — with fines or ranking point deductions for missing them — Sabalenka said she will still opt to skip certain events rather than risk injury or burnout.
Why Sabalenka Is Taking This Approach
1. Endorsing Player Welfare Over Schedule Demands
Sabalenka openly criticised the current length and intensity of the tennis calendar, calling the season “insane” and highlighting how it has contributed to widespread player injuries.
Her comments reflect a growing sentiment among top professionals that the physical and mental toll of an 11-month season — with mandatory appearances in high-level events — is unsustainable without adequate rest periods. Several other elite players, including world No. 2 Iga Swiatek, have also expressed frustration with the demanding tour schedule and hinted at choosing tournaments selectively to preserve their health.
2. Learning From Past Struggles
Sabalenka’s decision for a more careful 2026 campaign comes after a challenging 2025 season, during which she dealt with fatigue, injuries, and schedule overload. In addition to navigating an exhausting slate of tournaments, she stepped back from multiple events such as the National Bank Open and the China Open, citing tiredness and minor injuries. Those withdrawals underscored the physical strain that can accrue over a long year on tour.
Her choice this season — even at the risk of fines or rankings consequences — signals a shift toward long-term health management rather than short-term results.
The Debate Over Tennis’s Gruelling Calendar
Sabalenka isn’t alone in her critique. Other top players and commentators have also called for reform of the tour structure, arguing that the extended schedule leads to burnout and injuries and doesn’t sufficiently prioritise player recovery and wellness.
The World Tennis Association (WTA) and other governing bodies have, in response to mounting concerns, acknowledged the need to address player welfare and have suggested they are reviewing tour structures and compensation mechanisms — though major changes have yet to materialise.
What This Means for Sabalenka
Rankings Considerations
Sabalenka’s selective scheduling could lead to fines or deductions in ranking points, if she misses mandatory events under current WTA policy. However, she seems willing to accept that trade-off to ensure she stays healthy throughout the season.
Performance Outlook
Despite fewer planned starts, Sabalenka has shown she can still perform at a high level when she chooses to compete. She opened her 2026 season with a dominant win in Brisbane, demonstrating that when fresh, she remains a formidable force on the court.
Her strategy may ultimately allow her to peak at key Grand Slam events and preserve her status near the top of the rankings — while protecting the longevity of her career.
Broader Impact on Women’s Tennis
Sabalenka’s stance has broader implications for the sport:
- Player Autonomy: It highlights a rising trend of elite athletes asserting control over how they manage their bodies and careers.
- Tour Reform Pressure: This move adds pressure on the WTA and other tennis governing bodies to re-evaluate the calendar and how mandatory participation rules impact athlete health.
- Fan and Media Conversation: With top stars electing to skip events, there is an intensifying public discussion on the balance between entertainment demands and sustainable athlete performance.
What’s Next
As the 2026 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Sabalenka to see how effectively she can balance health management with elite competition. Her choices — and their outcomes — could influence how tennis stars navigate future seasons and how the sport evolves in response to player welfare concerns.
