Women's tennis schedule starts back up in the new year

New York- The schedule is out and the WTA have announced that the season will kick off January 5 with the Abu Dhabi WTA Women’s Tennis Open.

Despite rumors swirling around the tennis league about delaying matches. The WTA have decided to go on as plan with their schedule in a very safe manner. General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council was optimistic about hosting the event, “We are delighted to welcome to Abu Dhabi WTA’s 2021 kick-off event, the Abu Dhabi WTA Women’s Tennis Open. Abu Dhabi is a global capital of world sport and the presence of top tennis players from around the world at this time only strengthens that position and reinforces our esteemed reputation.”

The Australian Open qualifying will take place in Dubai from January 10-13. After both events concludes, travel to Melbourne will take flight hubs of Dubai (in addition to Singapore and Los Angeles).

When those events conclude, players and staff will have to complete a mandatory two-week quarantine. After the two week quarantine has been lifted and players and staff test negative for COVID, the quarantine period, two WTA 500 tournaments will be held January 31 - February 7.

Right after those tournaments, The 2021 Australian Open will then take place February 8-21 inclusive of singles, doubles and mixed doubles.

A WTA 250 will be held the second week of the Australian Open, allowing athletes to remain in Melbourne, which will give three weeks of competition for the players.

"We want to express our sincere appreciation for the cooperation between key tennis stakeholders and organizations, along with the local health authorities who have been vital in getting us to this point. The hard work will continue as we look further ahead into 2021 to ensure a safe and robust calendar," said WTA Chairman and CEO Steve Simon.