Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka have broken barriers on the WTA Tour. Now they want to change how their stories are told
A few days after the end of Roland Garros, the world No 89, Taylor Townsend, had a message to share. In a video posted on Instagram, she recalled the obstacles she has faced in her short career and the resilience that has guided her through it all. She then revealed that she will be taking maternity leave, ending with a simple conclusion: “I’m sure this won’t be any different so I will have to prove them wrong again.”
But perhaps she will not have to prove anyone wrong this time. The success – and increasing prominence – of mothers on the tour has been one of the most notable stories of the year. Nine mothers were present in the US Open draw, with Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka and Tsvetana Pironkova all reaching the quarter-finals. They have demonstrated that there is a clear career pathway for all those who wish to give birth and return. In recent months, the former No 66 Mandy Minella, the former No 12 Yanina Wickmayer and Townsend have all announced their intention to do so.
Being a parent is the most important thing in my life. But on the court I’m a tennis player, I’m a fighter
