Sabalenka blasts ‘insane’ tennis schedule
World number one Aryna Sabalenka says tennis authorities are not protecting players from what she calls an insane and overloaded tournament calendar.She argued that the packed season and heavy balls are causing more injuries, while organisers focus on their own interests instead of players’ health. Under WTA rules, top players must play all four Grand Slams, 10 WTA 1000s and six WTA 500 events or risk fines and ranking point deductions.Sabalenka revealed she lost points last season, along with Iga Swiatek, for not meeting the mandatory WTA 500 requirement despite already playing a heavy schedule. She said she plans to skip some tournaments again in 2026 to protect her body, even if it means further sanctions.The Belarusian added that she sometimes competed while sick or exhausted and now wants to manage her calendar better, insisting players should not be forced […]