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Coco Gauff could soon benefit from a major change to the WTA Tour schedule after officials indicated that the number of mandatory tournaments may be reduced.
The potential reform comes amid growing concern from players about the physical and mental demands of the modern tennis calendar. WTA competitors are currently expected to take part in a set number of high-level events, including six WTA 500 tournaments, alongside WTA 1000 competitions and the sport’s four Grand Slams.
That requirement has become increasingly difficult to manage as more tournaments expand to two-week formats. Gauff has previously described the six WTA 500 target as “impossible”, arguing that the packed calendar can place unnecessary strain on players’ bodies.
Coco Gauff could welcome a powerful WTA schedule change
Bob Moran, the Cincinnati Open tournament director and a member of the WTA Tour Architecture Council, suggested that a decision could be announced during the US Open.
“When we came out with the circuit structure a couple of years ago, it was trying to get players to play more 1000s and 500s,” Moran said.
He explained that players had been required to compete in more WTA 500 events as part of the tour’s revised structure. However, feedback from competitors has reportedly led to a review of that policy.
“They have to play 1000s, but more of the 500s, and rules were put into place to do that. And one of the things was they have to play six 500s,” Moran added. “We heard from the players that that has been difficult. I’m very confident that at the US Open, you’ll see that number come down.”
The exact number of mandatory events that could be removed has not been confirmed. Nevertheless, the possibility of a reduction represents a significant development for leading players such as Gauff, who regularly compete deep into major tournaments and high-profile events.
Why Gauff has criticised the demanding tennis calendar
Gauff has previously acknowledged that the mandatory-event rules may make commercial sense for the tour, particularly in relation to prize money and tournament commitments. However, the American star has questioned whether the structure is sustainable from a player welfare perspective.
“Obviously with the mandatory rules, I know why it’s in place with prize money and everything,” Gauff said.
“Do I agree with them? I mean, I guess on a business point, it can kind of make sense. But on a player health standpoint, I don’t really agree with it.”
She also highlighted the growing length of tournaments, explaining that it is becoming harder for players to complete six WTA 500 events while maintaining their fitness.
“I think I’ve basically played as much tennis as I possibly can, and it’s impossible to keep up with the six 500s. It’s just impossible,” Gauff said. “Especially now with more and more events being two weeks, it just doesn’t really make sense to strain your body.”
Gauff has argued that the season should be shorter, making the proposed WTA calendar review particularly relevant to her. A reduction in mandatory tournaments could allow top players to plan their seasons more carefully, reduce injury risks and arrive at Grand Slam events in better condition.
Alex Eala’s schedule highlights the growing pressure
The debate has also been brought into sharp focus by Alex Eala’s remarkable 2026 campaign. The Filipina star has played 58 matches across 18 tournaments this year, more than any other player on the WTA Tour at the time of the report.
Eala has recorded 38 wins and 20 defeats, including a recent loss to Amanda Anisimova in the last 32 of the Cincinnati Open. She had already admitted to feeling “tired and down” after her fourth-round defeat to Belinda Bencic at the Canadian Open.
Her demanding schedule is a clear example of why players have been calling for reform. Eala won her first WTA singles title at the Washington Open on August 3, but has had little opportunity to recover between tournaments.
Meanwhile, Gauff’s comments show that the issue affects established stars as well as emerging talents. With the US Open scheduled to begin on August 30, attention will now turn to whether the WTA confirms a meaningful reduction in mandatory WTA 500 appearances.
For Gauff and many of her fellow players, the change could bring welcome relief. A less congested calendar would not remove the intensity of professional tennis, but it could offer competitors more time to rest, prepare and protect their long-term careers.
Frequently asked questions
What WTA schedule change could benefit Coco Gauff?
The WTA may reduce the number of mandatory WTA 500 tournaments players must enter. Bob Moran expects more information to be announced at the US Open.
How many WTA 500 events are players currently expected to play?
Players are currently required to compete in six WTA 500 tournaments under the existing tour structure.
Why does Coco Gauff oppose the current schedule?
Gauff believes the requirement is difficult to meet, especially as more tournaments last two weeks. She has warned that the schedule can place excessive strain on players’ bodies.
When does the 2026 US Open begin?
The 2026 US Open is scheduled to begin on August 30, when the WTA could reveal details of its proposed schedule changes.
