Pregnant players on the women’s tennis tour now can receive 12 months of paid maternity leave, and those who become parents can get two months off with pay.

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is to finance a joint initiative with the WTA for paid maternity leave of "up to 12 months" for players on the women's tennis circuit, it was announced on Thursday.

As part of the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program, female competitors will receive paid maternity leave for up to 12 months. Athletes on the women’s circuit will also have access to grants for fertility treatments. The WTA said the plan would benefit more than 320 eligible players.