Tennis: US Open to change seeding process, will consider pregnancy
What's the story
The fourth Grand Slam of the year, US Open will start considering pregnancy when it decides the seeding of players. US Tennis Association president Katrina Adams stated that the players should not be penalized for starting their families. The change has come after French Open officials were criticized for the manner in which they handled the return of Serena Williams. Here's more.
Message
Adams sends the 'biggest' message to all female tennis players
Katrina Adams has stated that it's the right step for the mothers, who are making a comeback to tennis. She added, "We think it's a good message for our current female players and future players." Adams cited the biggest message in all of this is that a woman can be a mother and then return to her job. This is a much needed step.
Support
Serena received widespread support during French Open
Serena wasn't given a seeded spot by the French Open officials this year. This led to widespread criticism of the way, seeding is currently handled at the Grand Slams. She reached the round of 16, before withdrawing from the match against Maria Sharapova. Serena is currently ranked 183rd and will get to know this week if she will be seeded for Wimbledon or not.
Rules
What are the WTA rules?
As per the current rules, there is no protected seeding for players, who make return to the game after being absent. However, there is a scenario where protected rankings are offered for up to eight tournaments. However, with the rule change proposed, US Open would "revise the seeding(s) if pregnancy is a factor in the current rankings of a player."