Bencic 28 gave birth to her daughter Bella in April 2024. The Swiss player has moved up one place to ninth in the latest WTA ranking after an 11 month maternity break. Svitolina 31 whose daughter Skai was born in October 2022, has moved up two places to 10th. The Ukrainian reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open last month. New mothers returning to the tour can use their previous ranking to enter 12 tournaments over three years from the birth of their child.
Bencic said competing again at the highest level after maternity leave is something she is incredibly proud of.
“Very few people know or have experienced how difficult that journey is. My family, my team and I have put all of our energy, work and dedication into accomplishing this goal,” the former Olympic champion said.
Svitolina who has won 19 singles tour titles and reached a career-high ranking of third in 2018 said it means a lot to return to the top 10 as a mother.
“I’m proud of my fight and resilience. I cannot thank the fans enough for their incredible support,” added Svitolina, who is married to French player Gael Monfils.
Last summer the WTA introduced a new rule. Female players who want to freeze eggs or embryos to start a family later will now have their ranking protected by the tour.
