On Tuesday, WTA Chair Valerie Camillo announced the establishment of the new Tour Architecture Council, which aims to propose actionable enhancements to the Tour framework for implementation starting in the 2027 season.
A Stronger Framework for Women’s Tennis
Dear Players and Tournament Partners,
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role as WTA Chair has been witnessing the remarkable momentum in women’s tennis, propelled by our exceptional players, fantastic tournaments, and devoted fans. The 2026 season is beginning strongly, with top-tier competition and enthusiastic engagement from fans worldwide creating an exciting atmosphere for further growth.
As Chair, my key objective is to leverage this momentum and opportunity for the benefit of our members. I have dedicated time to listening to players and tournaments to assess what works and what doesn’t on the Tour. Over my first 90 days, a clear sentiment emerged: many feel the current calendar is unsustainable for players due to the physical, professional, and personal demands of competing at the highest level. We must collaboratively reevaluate how to best maintain the high-caliber competition that enhances tournament value and provides an exceptional experience for fans.
Therefore, I am launching the Tour Architecture Council, a representative working group organized by the WTA to propose substantial improvements to the calendar, commitments, and other fundamental elements of the Tour framework. This Council’s initial focus will be on developing actionable recommendations for the WTA Board that can be executed as early as the 2027 season, starting with areas where the WTA can directly enact change.
The Council comprises influential figures from across the global tennis landscape, including players from various regions, leaders from major tournaments in the Americas, Europe, and Asia, as well as WTA senior leadership, including myself, Tour CEO Portia Archer, and experts in Tour operations and calendar planning. The Council will be led by currently ranked World No. 5, Jessica Pegula, who will ensure that discussions encompass a wide array of player experiences while collaborating with tournament representatives and WTA leadership.
The WTA’s unique structure enables us to unite athletes and tournament organizers to influence the future of our sport. For over 50 years, this model has resulted in our players being highly regarded and well-compensated, allowing the Tour to expand globally with increasing attendance and viewership. In today’s landscape, the WTA’s ability to convene and translate feedback is our most powerful asset for fostering real change.
Women’s tennis serves as a vital growth driver for our sport, and the WTA is well-positioned to effectively address current realities while ensuring the Tour’s ongoing success. I’m honored to serve as Chair during this crucial time, and I eagerly anticipate our collaborative work to make informed decisions that bolster our athletes and the enduring strength of women’s tennis.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our sport.
Sincerely,
Valerie Camillo
Chair, WTA
Who’s on the Tour Architecture Council
Jessica Pegula leads the Tour Architecture Council, along with Valerie Camillo and Portia Archer.
Among the Player Class Representatives are former World No. 1 Victoria Azarenka, current WTA Players’ Council member Maria Sakkari, Katie Volynets — representing players ranked No. 51-100 on the WTA Players’ Council — and WTA Players’ Council Chair Anja Vreg, serving as a Player Representative for Top 20 players on the WTA Board of Directors.
The Tournament Representatives include Chief Operating Officer and Co-Tournament Director at APG Laura Ceccarelli, Managing Director of Octagon Tennis Alastair Garland, and President of Beemok Sports & Entertainment Bob Moran.
The WTA Tour Representatives are WTA Tour Head of Strategy David Highhill, WTA Tour Senior VP of Member Relations Ashley Keber, and WTA Tour Senior VP of Tour Operations Joan Pennello.
Statements of Support From Tour Architecture Council Members
“The Tour Architecture Council unites a representative group of players and tournaments to collaborate with WTA leadership in translating feedback into collective improvements to the Tour framework. I’m particularly grateful to have Jessica Pegula as Chair, and I look forward to developing actionable recommendations with this group.” – Portia Archer, WTA CEO
“This is an opportunity to address specific aspects of the Tour structure in the short term while continuing discussions on long-term enhancements. The WTA is uniquely positioned to bring this group together, and I appreciate their commitment to facilitating real change for 2027.” – Jessica Pegula
“The Tour Architecture Council signifies a shared dedication among tournaments, players, and the WTA to preserve and enhance the high-quality product that is women’s tennis. I’m excited to contribute to actionable recommendations that will drive growth and benefit the entire ecosystem.” – Bob Moran
“Today, WTA Chair Valerie Camillo announced the creation of the Tour Architecture Council to propose actionable enhancements to the Tour framework for the 2027 season. This global assembly of top players and tournament representatives will collaborate with WTA leaders to develop recommendations reflecting diverse perspectives, ultimately aiming to sustain the high-quality competition that enhances tournament value and offers fans an unparalleled experience.” – Statement from the WTA
