Elina Svitolina (left) and Belinda Bencic. | Photo credit: AP
Swiss Bencic returned to the top 10 in January for the first time since he left court in September 2023 to give birth to daughter Bella.
In the latest rankings released on Monday, she was joined by Svitolina, Skai’s mother, after the Ukrainian reached the semi-finals at the Australian Open last week.
The WTA has made efforts in recent years to help players maintain their professional careers and become parents with its Family Focus Program.
It includes rank protection during pregnancy, postpartum support upon return to play and paid maternity leave.
“Two mothers entering the WTA Top 10 for the first time is an incredible moment for tennis and for women’s sports,” said WTA CEO Portia Archer.
“This not only underlines the exceptional achievements of Belinda and Elina, it reaffirms the WTA’s commitment to creating an environment where mothers can continue to compete and succeed, at the very highest levels of sport – or any profession.”
Bencic and Svitolina both took advantage of the special ranking rule for returning mothers.
“Coming back into the WTA Top 10, a year after returning to competition after maternity leave, is something I am incredibly proud of,” said ninth-ranked Bencic.
“Very few people know or have experienced how difficult that journey is, but my family, my team and I have put all our energy, work and dedication into achieving this goal.”
Svitolina, who is ranked 10th, added: “It is a dream to return to the WTA Top 10.
“Doing it as a mother means so much to me. I’m proud of my struggle and resilience.”
Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek retained their places as world numbers one and two in the rankings, while the newly crowned Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina rose two places to three.
Amana Anisimova, Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, Mirra Andreva and Jasmine Paolini fill in four to eight respectively.
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Published – Feb 4, 2026 02:58 AM IST
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