LONDON — For the first time in 52 years, women’s tennis is making a historic return to the prestigious Queen’s Club Championships. The event, traditionally a men’s-only tournament, will feature a women’s draw in 2024, marking a significant milestone in the sport’s push for gender equality. Here’s why this long-awaited comeback is happening now.
A Historic Return
The Queen’s Club Championships, held annually in London, has been a staple of the men’s tennis calendar since 1890. However, women last competed there in 1972, when the tournament was part of the women’s tour. The decision to reintroduce women’s matches after more than half a century reflects a broader shift in tennis toward inclusivity and equal opportunities. As tournament director Luiz Carvalho noted, "This is a landmark moment for the sport and for Queen’s. We’re proud to bring women back to this iconic venue."
Why Now? The Push for Equality
The return of women’s tennis to Queen’s is part of a larger movement within the sport to address historical imbalances. In recent years, tournaments like Wimbledon and the US Open have made strides in prize money equality, while the WTA has advocated for more combined events. Queen’s, now part of the ATP 500 series, will host a WTA 500 event alongside the men’s competition, creating a unified showcase for tennis. Key factors driving this change include:
- Fan Demand: Growing interest in women’s tennis, fueled by stars like Emma Raducanu and Coco Gauff, has increased pressure on tournaments to feature both genders.
- Sponsorship Opportunities: Combined events attract larger audiences and more lucrative deals, benefiting organizers and players alike.
- Tour Scheduling: Aligning men’s and women’s tours reduces logistical challenges and enhances the spectator experience.
The Road to Reintegration
Reintroducing women’s tennis at Queen’s wasn’t without hurdles. The club’s grass courts, renowned for their pristine quality, required upgrades to accommodate back-to-back tournaments. Additionally, securing WTA approval meant ensuring equal facilities and scheduling parity. As WTA CEO Steve Simon stated, "This wouldn’t have happened without a commitment to treating the women’s event with the same respect as the men’s."
A Nod to the Past
The last women’s champion at Queen’s in 1972 was Virginia Wade, who later won Wimbledon in 1977. Wade, now 78, welcomed the news, saying, "It’s about time. Queen’s is a special place, and the women’s game deserves to be there."
What to Expect in 2024
The 2024 edition will feature a 32-player women’s draw running concurrently with the men’s event. Top WTA players, including Ons Jabeur and Jessica Pegula, have already expressed interest in competing. The tournament will also introduce mixed doubles, a fan-friendly addition that further bridges the gap between the tours. Key highlights include:
- Equal Prize Money: Both the men’s and women’s champions will receive the same financial reward.
- Prime Scheduling: Women’s matches will headline evening sessions, ensuring maximum visibility.
- Grass-Court Prep: The event serves as a crucial warm-up for Wimbledon, offering women more opportunities to adapt to the surface.
The Bigger Picture for Women’s Tennis
Queen’s isn’t the only tournament expanding its reach. The Madrid Open and Italian Open have successfully hosted combined events for years, proving the model’s viability. As former world No. 1 Martina Navratilova emphasized, "This is a step forward, but there’s more work to do. Every major tournament should include women."
Conclusion: A New Era Begins
The return of women’s tennis to Queen’s after 52 years is a testament to the sport’s evolving landscape. By embracing equality and innovation, the tournament sets a precedent for others to follow. As fans eagerly await the 2024 edition, one thing is clear: the future of tennis is inclusive, and the women’s game is here to stay. "This isn’t just about history," said Carvalho. "It’s about progress."