Bridging The Gap? WTA Stars Split On Five-Set Grand Slam Proposal

Last Updated:March 04, 2026, 19:27 IST

A debate is stirring on the WTA Tour about switching women's Grand Slam matches to best-of-five sets from the quarter-finals. Some players support it, while others have doubts.

A bold idea is stirring debate on the WTA Tour: should women’s Grand Slam matches switch to best-of-five sets from the quarter-finals onward?

The concept, backed by newly appointed USTA CEO Craig Tiley, would mark a significant shift.

Currently, women compete in best-of-three matches, while men play best-of-five at majors. Tiley, long known for innovation at the Australian Open, believes research shows fan interest builds as matches stretch longer.

Not everyone is convinced.

Swiatek: “A Weird Approach"

Six-time major champion Iga Swiatek questioned the logic behind lengthening matches in an era of shrinking attention spans.

“It’s a weird approach in the world where everything is becoming faster," she said at the Indian Wells Open.

“So I don’t know if the audience honestly would like that."

Swiatek also raised performance concerns.

“I don’t know if we would be able to keep the quality for five sets. Men are more physically strong, and they can handle it better," the Pole said.

“Also, we have never practiced in a way to prepare for that, so we would need to change our whole calendar."

Rybakina: “I Wouldn’t Want It"

Reigning Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina echoed those reservations.

“Mentally, to be ready to play so many sets if it goes to that point, I think it’s not easy.

“It’s a tricky topic… I wouldn’t want to play three out of five, to be honest."

Gauff and Sabalenka See Opportunity

Others see upside.

Three-time major winner Coco Gauff believes it could suit her physically, but still has doubts.

“It probably would favour me… But I would prefer it to be the whole tournament, not just the quarters. Changing the format in the middle defeats the purpose."

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka was more enthusiastic.

“Yeah, let’s do that. I feel like I would have probably more Grand Slams.

“Physically, I’m really strong… my body can handle that."

For now, it’s just an idea. But it’s already dividing the locker room.

(with Reuters inputs)

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