Pegula: "We are capable of playing five-set matches, but it wouldn't be good for tennis"

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It is a recurring topic that gained more resonance just over a month ago, reigniting the debate with force. Should women play best-of-five sets in Grand Slams? Jessica Pegula, a key figure in the decision-making of the WTA circuit as a member of the Player Council, was asked about it at Indian Wells and was very firm in her response.

Equality is an abstract, elusive concept in many sports. Tennis is one that has made significant progress, with women enjoying much greater media coverage than in almost any other discipline, sharing the stage on equal terms with men and having exactly equal prize money in most major tournaments.

This leads some to argue that they should play five sets in Grand Slams, an idea supported by Craig Tiley, who announced the Australian Open's intention for women's matches to be best-of-five sets from the quarterfinals in future editions. It was a bold statement, almost a provocation by a man transitioning from Tennis Australia to the USTA, causing shock, and in some cases, even terror and indignation. Jessica Pegula spoke out clearly on this matter.

Pegula emphasizes the logistical challenge it would be for tournaments if women played best-of-five sets and believes that men would not want it

"We shouldn't do it, as I've said several times. I'm not a fan of five sets, not even for men. I know there are very exciting matches that leave a mark, but in most cases, matches go to five sets due to players' fatigue, their need to manage energy differently. Many of them have confessed this to me," explains the American, demonstrating her commitment to defending this position and making a compelling argument based on practicality.

One of the most challenging aspects to manage in tennis is the uncertainty surrounding a match; not knowing when most matches start and end is complicated, and if women also play five sets, the days could become endless, and fans could end up weary. "There are fantastic athletes in the women's circuit right now, and I think we could play five sets, but it's not necessary," the American adds.

"There are many variables that people do not consider or that fans do not realize initially, but it would imply a significant change for tennis. I don't know how tournaments' schedules could be arranged. People could spend ten hours watching two tennis matches, I don't think that would be the most enjoyable experience. I also don't think men would want it because it would prolong the days significantly, matches would end very late... There are many aspects to consider, many conversations would be necessary to propose something like this, but I don't think it would be positive for tennis," explained Jessica Pegula, who will advocate this position in the WTA Player Council.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Pegula: "Estamos capacitadas para jugar partidos de cinco sets, pero no sería bueno para el tenis"