Brisbane International: Aryna Sabalenka says players are 'not protected' under current schedule

World number one Aryna Sabalenka told reporters at the Brisbane International that the season is 'definitely insane' and she plans to skip some events to protect her body; the WTA says player welfare will remain a top priority.

Aryna Sabalenka spoke about the tour calendar after her win at the Brisbane International, saying players are not being protected under the current schedule. She described the season as "definitely insane" and noted many players are getting injured. Sabalenka said she will skip some events this year to protect her body and manage her workload. The WTA has stated that player welfare will "always remain a top priority". Key points: - Sabalenka said she will skip some events this year to protect her body and manage fatigue. - Leading players on the women's tour are expected to play at least 20 mandatory events: four Grand Slams, 10 WTA 1000s and six WTA 500s. - Sabalenka and world number two Iga Swiatek had ranking points deducted last season for not playing enough WTA 500 events. - The WTA has said player welfare will "always remain a top priority". Summary: Sabalenka has publicly raised concerns about the length and intensity of the tennis calendar and intends to reduce her schedule to protect her health, while noting she may face fines for doing so. The issue of scheduling and player welfare is ongoing and how it will be addressed by authorities is undetermined at this time.