The Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of 2025, is underway, and the tennis world is buzzing with action. Novak Djokovic continues to break records, Iga Swiatek is poised for another strong run, and young stars are making headlines. Amid the thrilling matches, an intriguing debate has resurfaced: should women play five-set matches at Grand Slam tournaments?
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Swedish tennis legend Mats Wilander, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, has reignited this discussion with a bold call for equality in match formats. Speaking on Eurosport, Wilander argued that it is time for women to adopt the five-set format, mirroring the men’s game. His comments have sparked widespread debate among players, fans, and analysts alike.
Mats Wilander’s Case for Equality
Wilander’s primary argument stems from a desire to equalize the demands placed on male and female players at Grand Slam events. “Absolutely no chance should it be best of three sets. It has to be the best of five sets,” Wilander stated. “I think it is time that the women start playing best of five. Not for their abilities—they are more than capable—but for the sake of equality in scheduling and format.”
Wilander also emphasized the unique excitement of five-set matches, arguing that the extended format tests players’ stamina, mental fortitude, and adaptability. For him, these elements are what separate great players from good ones.
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Serena Williams and the Players’ Perspective
This debate is not new, and players have weighed in before. In 2019, Serena Williams, arguably the greatest female player in history, dismissed the argument that women’s matches are less demanding simply because they are shorter. Williams stated, “We’ve said we’re willing and ready. Every female athlete is ready to play five sets. It’s the tournaments that prefer us playing three sets.”
This perspective highlights an important point: women are not opposed to the change. The challenge lies in logistics, scheduling, and the willingness of tournament organizers to adapt.
Practical Challenges of Five-Set Matches
While the idea of equality is appealing, implementing five-set matches for women raises logistical concerns. Grand Slam tournaments already face tight schedules, with multiple matches played across a limited number of courts. Doubling the potential match length for women’s draws would likely necessitate longer tournaments or separate scheduling for men’s and women’s events.
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Additionally, there are concerns about player workload and injury risks. Women’s matches currently average around two hours, while five-set men’s matches often exceed three hours. The extended format could place additional physical strain on players, potentially leading to more injuries over the course of the season.
The Fans’ Take
Fans are divided on the issue. Some argue that introducing five-set matches for women would elevate the sport, creating more drama and opportunities for comebacks. Others believe the current three-set format is perfectly suited to the women’s game, offering a concise and exciting viewing experience.
A compromise could involve introducing five-set matches only for later rounds of tournaments, such as the semifinals and finals. This approach would balance the desire for equality with practical considerations.
Looking to the Future
As tennis evolves, so too do the conversations surrounding equality and innovation in the sport. Mats Wilander’s call for change is part of a broader movement to ensure that tennis remains progressive and inclusive. Whether or not five-set matches become a reality for women, the debate highlights the importance of continually reevaluating traditions to reflect the modern era.
The Australian Open serves as a reminder of the incredible athleticism and determination displayed by players across both draws. Regardless of the match format, the focus remains on celebrating the achievements of the athletes who make tennis one of the most captivating sports in the world.
