The WTA has a serious health crisis

First, the great Justine Henin-Hardenne contracted a virus that put her out of play for a year, and made her feel, at times, that she would never be able to do much of anything again. Vera Zvonareva's game decreased significantly in quality, and it turns out that she, too, had a serious virus. Australia's Alicia Molik--who worked for years before getting herself to the upper part of the rankings--contracted an ear infection and was out for months. Her comeback has been unsuccessful, she is still ill, and she has announced that she is leaving tennis for now, with hope that she can heal and eventually return to the tour.

Henin-Hardenne announced this week that, because of a hamstring injury, she is finished for the season, and she is expected to give up her slot in the Year End Championships. Henin-Hardenne is also very cautious about getting run down and having her viral infection return.

Amelie Mauresmo, known for both her fitness and her postive attitude, announced this week that she "can't stand anymore." World number 4 Mauresmo suffered big defeats in both Moscow and Zurich, a signal that something was very wrong. In an interview with L'Equipe today, Mauresmo said she had no more energy, and was considering withdrawing from the Year End Championships.

U.S. Open champion Kim Clijsters was out for about a year because of a wrist injury. Serena Williams has been plagued with multiple injuries for the past couple of years. There have always been injuries in women's tennis, but not like this. Top players are constantly sidelined because of injuries now. The tour has taken its toll on the players, and something needs to change.