WTA CEO defends Coco Gauff and Ons Jabeur after they criticized the French Open’s scheduling and fairness. Read how the tennis world is reacting and what’s next for women’s tennis.WTA Stands Firm Behind Gauff and Jabeur Amid French Open Backlash Rising Stars Speak Out, and the WTA Listens In a dramatic turn during the 2025 French Open, tennis sensations Coco Gauff and Ons Jabeur publicly criticized the tournament’s scheduling and perceived gender disparities. Their statements drew both praise and backlash—but now, the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has weighed in. In a rare move, WTA CEO Carla Morales issued a powerful statement defending both players and their right to voice concerns on behalf of women athletes worldwide.
A Bold Call for Fairness and Transparency
Gauff and Jabeur’s criticism centered around limited prime-time matches for women and unequal rest days during the tournament. Gauff, a U.S. Open champion, noted that “consistency and visibility matter,” while Jabeur pointed to a “pattern that undermines top female athletes.” Their remarks sparked wide debate, but also raised deeper questions about how women’s matches are programmed in Grand Slam tournaments—especially at Roland-Garros.
WTA CEO Delivers a Firm and Unified Response
Responding swiftly, CEO Carla Morales declared: “Coco and Ons have shown immense courage and leadership. The WTA stands firmly with them. Their advocacy isn’t divisive; it’s necessary.” Morales went further, calling for a joint review between Grand Slam boards and the WTA to examine scheduling equity. The WTA’s backing underscores its mission to protect not just the athletic integrity of its players, but their voices as leaders in the sport.
Global Reactions Echo Support for Players’ Rights
Support for Gauff and Jabeur has poured in from fans, current players, and retired legends of the game. Billie Jean King tweeted, “Speaking up for fairness is part of our legacy. Bravo, Coco and Ons.” Meanwhile, analysts believe this moment may serve as a turning point for women’s tennis in how tournaments prioritize gender parity—not just in pay, but in visibility and respect.
French Open Organizers Remain Silent—For Now
Despite growing media attention, French Open officials have yet to release a formal response. Insiders say internal discussions are underway, but the silence has only amplified calls for accountability. With pressure mounting, many expect the tournament to revisit its programming policies before the 2026 season to avoid a PR crisis and maintain harmony with the WTA.
A New Era of Advocacy in Women’s Tennis
What began as post-match comments has grown into a broader movement. Gauff and Jabeur’s outspokenness, paired with the WTA’s quick support, signals a new era of player-led advocacy in women’s tennis. With visibility, fairness, and transparency now part of the public conversation, the sport could be on the cusp of meaningful reform. One thing is certain: these stars are not just playing the game—they’re changing it
Keywords used:
Coco Gauff, Ons Jabeur, WTA, French Open controversy, women’s tennis equality, Carla Morales, tennis scheduling, gender equity in sports.
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