As the desert buzz builds at Indian Wells, world no. 1 Aryna Sabalenka wastes no time in setting the tone for the week. The Belarusian powerhouse, known as much for her thunderous groundstrokes as her candid press conferences, made headlines upon arrival by backing one of tennis’ most hotly debated ideas - introducing best-of-five-set matches for women in the latter stages of Grand Slams.

Speaking ahead of the Indian Wells event, Sabalenka voiced clear support for the proposal, positioning herself as one of the leading voices in the conversation. For Sabalenka, the shift to five sets isn’t just about equality - it’s about opportunity. “If we were to do that, I feel like I would probably have more Grand Slams. I feel like I’m physically very strong; I’m pretty sure my body could handle it, so hopefully it will happen. It would mean a lot of physical work for all the players, but this is a sport, and we have to look out for ourselves. If we do it, I really think I have an advantage.”

The four-time major champion has long prided herself on her fitness and power-based game. In extended battles, her relentless baseline aggression and stamina could prove decisive. In a format that rewards physical durability and mental toughness, Aryna Sabalenka believes she could separate herself even further from the field.

But coming to this hot topic, the debate gained serious traction earlier this year at the Australian Open, when Craig Tiley, the tournament’s former chief and now incoming head of the United States Tennis Association… suggested the idea deserved discussion.

In an interview with The New York Times, Tiley argued that switching to five sets from the quarterfinal stage onward could elevate the spectacle. “All the research shows interest grows as the match goes on. As a sport, we need to evolve.” His comments sparked immediate reactions across the circuit, reopening a long-standing conversation about format parity between the ATP and WTA tours. What did other WTA stars say on this before?

Iga Swiatek joins Aryna Sabalenka to share her thoughts on ‘best-of-five’ format in Slams

Interestingly, Aryna Sabalenka’s current endorsement marks a clear evolution in her viewpoint. As recently as Wimbledon in July 2025, she had expressed serious reservations about the change. After a straight-sets first-round win, she admitted:

“Probably physically, I'm one of the strongest ones, so maybe it would benefit me. But I think I'm not ready to play five sets. I think it's too much on the woman's body. I think we're not ready for this amount of tennis. I think it would increase the amount of injuries. So I think this is not something I would consider.”

Now, however, her tone has shifted - from caution to confidence, signaling a broader readiness to embrace the challenge. But not everyone shares Sabalenka’s optimism. Six-time Grand Slam champion and former World No. 1 Iga Swiatek has been firmly against the proposal.

“I think honestly, it's a weird approach in the world where everything is becoming faster,” Swiatek said. “So I don't know if the audience honestly would like that.” She also questioned whether the overall quality could be sustained over five sets, pointing to physical differences and preparation structures. “Well, that's a fact, like, men are more physically strong, and they can handle it for sure better.”

Beyond physiology, Swiatek warned of scheduling ripple effects. Preparing for potential five-set battles at all four majors would likely require players to reduce their tournament commitments elsewhere, potentially reshaping the entire calendar. “I think it would change a lot. I don't think it would change anything for good.”

Even world No. 5 Jessica Pegula echoed similar sentiments. While acknowledging that women are capable of competing in five-set matches, she questioned whether the shift would be practical. “I think we have amazing female athletes; that, honestly, I think we could do that,” Pegula said. “I don't think it's the fact that we can't; I just don't necessarily think that we should.”

Her primary concern? Logistics. “We'd have to add weeks. We can't even get through the schedule now. So I'm not really sure for like a fan experience how that would really work.”

With Aryna Sabalenka now backing the change and other top stars urging caution, the debate reflects a broader crossroads moment for women’s tennis. Should the sport evolve toward extended formats in pursuit of parity and drama? Or would such a move strain players and an already packed calendar?

As Indian Wells unfolds, the conversation will likely intensify. And with Sabalenka standing firmly in favor, one thing is certain - if five-set tennis becomes reality at the majors, the world no. 1 plans to be ready for it.

Written by

Sayantan Roy

Sayantan Roy is a seasoned tennis journalist at EssentiallyTennis. He brings a deep tactical understanding to his coverage, breaking down head-to-head records, match dynamics, and on-court strategies with precision. For more than two years, Sayantan has been a key member of the Live Events desk, delivering real-time insights and data-backed predictions for the platform’s Matchday Preview section. His analytical approach has sparked editorial debates and drawn recognition from respected tennis voices, including commentator and analyst Olly_Tennis. Combining his experience in writing with a passion for insightful sports journalism, Sayantan’s work serves as a trusted reference point for tennis fans around the world.

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