Simon said the WTA is exploring several revised calendar models in hopes of rescheduling some eventsGETTY IMAGES
The WTA currently is suspended until June 8, but CEO Steve Simon indicated the tour is looking to extend its season beyond the traditional 44 weeks in an effort to help tournaments and players. Simon said the tour is exploring several different revised calendar models in hopes of rescheduling interested events such as the Volvo Car Open in Charleston, S.C., which was one of 12 WTA tournaments that were canceled or postponed because of a suspension of play that started April 6. Simon in an email wrote the WTA "started having such conversations" with tournaments in January when "we first started to see the rapid spread of the virus." Simon: "Tournaments are advising us to the potential dates they could reschedule, if they can reschedule, factors including when their venue would be available, to name a few. ... It's a puzzle and we're currently gathering all the information to put those pieces together to see what our new calendar could look like for the remaining 2020."
TRYING TO WORK FOR SPONSORS: Delivering for sponsors is another puzzle that the WTA has tried to proactively approach. Each deal is unique, but Simon wrote the WTA is trying to work with its stakeholders consistently during the stoppage by quickly turning around creative content and activating every resource available. For global premier partner Porsche, that meant a "Race Ready" player content series profiling how players are staying in shape and focused on their position in the Porsche Race to Shenzhen, where the WTA Finals are held each November. The tour also has arranged Instagram live chats between players for fans and provided media partners with immediate access to archival footage. "Our team has worked tirelessly to not only develop bespoke partner solutions, but has already begun implementation," Simon wrote. "You can see various companies across the globe, like we have experienced in tennis, are coming together, adapting in real-time and as a result, seeing a new value in their partnerships, despite the unexpected circumstances."
