The prospect of women playing five-set tennis at a Grand Slam event has become a much greater possibility.
Craig Tiley has stated his desire to see five-set matches introduced for the last three rounds of the Australian Open Women’s Singles event.
Tiley would like to consult with players on the matter, with a view to introducing the format in 2027.
Danielle Collins recently reacted to the news, saying: ”I feel like I’m about to go into cardiac arrest just thinking about playing three out of five.”
Now Iva Jovic – the 18-year-old star who made waves at the 2026 Australian Open – has offered her thoughts on the possibility of five-set matches being played on the WTA Tour.
Do you think women should play best-of-five set matches?
Iva Jovic says she is ‘here for’ playing best of five at Grand Slams
Iva Jovic became a household name at the Australian Open after producing a barnstorming run to the quarter-finals.
The American, whom Novak Djokovic tipped to be a future world number one, has revealed that she is open to the prospect of best-of-five tennis at Grand Slams.
“I know a couple of the girls were already giving some negative feedback,” Jovic said in an interview with the Tennis Channel.
“For me, if that is the decision that is going to be made, I welcome it with open arms. I think I am very fit and I like the marathon mentality.
“I focus very well, and I think if anything it maybe gives you more time to figure out the game and when you are playing these really big hitters, strong players, it gives you a bit more time to get into it.
“It does truly become very long and very taxing but if that is decision they want to make, I’m here for it. I am ready to adjust. It will be interesting. I am definitely not opposed.”
Five-set matches would certainly bring more excitement to the women’s game. The WTA produces some excellent contests, but is currently unable to replicate the exhilaration of a five-set contest.
This format represents the best form of tennis. Five-set contests are the ultimate spectacle for tennis fans – matches that test a player’s fortitude and ability to remain calm, while also offering the opportunity for jaw-dropping comebacks.
Marion Bartoli believes women can play best of five
Last summer Iga Swiatek demolished Amanda Anisimova 6-0, 6-0 to win her first Wimbledon title.
A week later, Marion Bartoli – the 2013 Wimbledon champion – expressed her desire to see women playing best of five matches.
Is Rybakina the best player on the WTA Tour right now?
If not, who is better?
“Women are absolutely capable of playing best-of-five sets,” Bartoli in an interview with CLAY and RG Media.
“That final was special, so I don’t think you can take that one example and extrapolate it to say that women should play best-of-five. Usually we see longer finals, like the one at Roland Garros.
“It’s a discussion the players need to have with the WTA.”
