WTAxMB-star_joint-logo_h_MB-version_p_3C_web (1)
WTAxMB-star_joint-logo_h_MB-version_p_3C_web_white (1)
WTA_Web_Quick-Links_Tiles-Scores_288x288
Scores
WTA_Web_Quick-Links_Tiles-Rankings_288x288
Rankings
unlocked
Unlocked
WTA_Web_Quick-Links_Tiles-TourCalendar_288x288
Calendar
WTA_Web_Quick-Links_Tiles-Video_288x288
Highlights
WTA_Web_Quick-Links_Tiles-H2H_288x288
H2H

Middle East Coach Inclusion Program

1m read 01 Nov 2025 2mo ago
Picture 1

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION & PARTNERS

The Middle East Coach Inclusion Program launched in November 2025, marking an important expansion of the WTA's global commitment to increasing the number of women in high-performance coaching. The program was facilitated by Issam Jellali, long-time coach of Ons Jabeur and a leading Arabic-speaking Tunisian Tennis personality in the region, alongside Kathy Rinaldi, WTA legend, USTA Head of Women's Tennis, and former U.S. Billie Jean King Cup captain. Their combined expertise brings a powerful blend of regional insight and world-class professional experience to the program's delivery.

This Middle East edition officially begins at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, rounding out a global footprint that now includes all four Grand Slam federations as program hosts—along with the prestigious year-end Finals venue. The 2025–2026 cohort features five participants representing countries across the Middle East, who will engage in targeted on-court development, leadership training, and mentorship tailored to the regional coaching landscape.

The program will conclude in February 2026, aligning with the Middle East swing of WTA events in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Doha, giving participants an immersive view of high-performance coaching during the region's premier tournaments. This initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening pathways for women coaches across the Middle East and deepening the WTA's presence in one of the sport's fastest-growing regions.

APPLICANT CRITERIA & APPLICATION DEADLINES

To be eligible to apply you must meet two of the following criteria:

  • Nomination by a Middle East Tennis Federation
  • Former WTA Full Member
  • Current or former WTA Associate Member with 2 years of performance coaching experience
  • Hold a current Coach certification or qualification
  • Private coach to ITF Junior player with 3 years of coaching experience
  • Current National Police Check & Working with Children Check relevant to your country

Other qualifications that may be considered along with other criteria:

  • Playing experience (list the highest level of competition)
  • Previous ITF, WTA players coached (list players who they served as the primary coach for)
  • Applications for 2025/2026 Program are now closed. Applications for 2026/2027 will open mid 2026.

PROGRAM DATES

Phase 1: WTA Finals Riyadh, Saudi Arabia November 2025

Phase 2: Virtual Sessions (November & December 2025)

Phase 3: WTA Tournament Experience

  • Abu Dhabi 2026
  • Doha 2026
  • Dubai 2026