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WTA Stars Split Over Proposal for Best-of-Five Sets From Grand Slam Quarterfinals

The idea remains under discussion with no rule change adopted.

Overview

  • Incoming USTA chief Craig Tiley has urged talks on shifting women’s Grand Slam matches to best-of-five from the quarterfinals, citing research that fan interest rises later in matches.
  • Aryna Sabalenka endorsed the change and said the longer format would suit her strength and durability.
  • Iga Swiatek opposed the switch, warning of potential drops in match quality and saying players would need to overhaul training and calendars.
  • Coco Gauff said longer matches might favor her but argued any shift should apply across the entire tournament and questioned whether events could finish in two weeks.
  • Jessica Pegula and Elena Rybakina voiced similar reservations about scheduling and stamina demands, underscoring that women currently play best-of-three while men play best-of-five at the majors.