Belinda Bencic and Elina Svitolina made history as the first mothers to be simultaneously ranked in the top 10 on the WTA Tour, with the governing body calling it “an incredible moment for women’s sport”.
Switzerland’s Bencic returned to the top 10 in January for the first time since taking time away from the field in September 2023 to give birth to daughter Bella.
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In the latest rankings released on Monday, she was joined by Svitolina, Skai’s mother, after the Ukrainian’s run to the semi-finals of the Australian Open last week.
The WTA has made efforts in recent years to help players maintain their professional careers and become parents through its Family Focus program.
It includes ranking protection during pregnancy, postpartum support with a return to play and paid maternity leave.
“Two mothers ranked in the WTA Top 10 for the first time is an incredible moment for tennis and for women’s sport,” said WTA CEO Portia Archer.
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“Not only does this highlight the outstanding achievements of Belinda and Elina, it reaffirms the WTA’s commitment to creating an environment where mothers can continue to compete and succeed, at the highest level of sport — or in any profession.”
Both Bencic and Svitolina took advantage of the special ranking rule for returning mothers.
“Returning to the WTA Top 10 a year after returning to competition after maternity leave is something I am incredibly proud of,” said Bencic, ranked ninth.
“Very few people know or have experienced how difficult this journey is, but my family, my team and I have put all our energy, work and dedication into achieving this goal.”
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Svitolina, ranked tenth in the world, added: “It’s a dream to return to the WTA Top 10.
“Doing this as a mother means so much to me. I’m proud of my fight and my resilience.”
Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek retained their world number one and two places in the rankings, while new Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina climbed two places to three.
Amanada Anisimova, Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, Mirra Andreeva and Jasmine Paolini fill four to eight, respectively.
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