Former world No.1 and two-time Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka is puzzled by Serena Williams' seeding at Wimbledon this year, saying the rules should be the same for everyone.
Shortly after her 7-6 (7-4) 6-3 win over Ekaterina Alexandrova 7-6 (7-4) 6-3 in her opening match on Monday, the Belarusian questioned new-mum William's No.25 seeding at the All England Club.
"It's as simple as (that). I didn't get it last year. She got it this year.
"I think it's an important conversation that has been started," said the 28-year-old, also US Open runner-up in 2012 and 2013.
"This conversation has led to numerous meetings, numerous occasions where we are discussing the rules and how can we be a leader in sports to have the best maternity policy."
Azarenka was denied a seeding last year after giving birth to her son the previous December while Williams became a mother in September.
"A couple of days ago we had a big meeting, and I feel like we are moving in a really good direction. I feel that our voices, as a player council, are heard. We do implement things that are going to be important for players," she said.
"But my main thing is that it has to be for everyone, and the rules have to be applied for everyone. So that is one thing that we haven't come to the conclusion yet, but it's coming.
"I think I'm pretty proud of what kind of conversations we have been having," said Azarenka, who suffered a serious knee injury in 2014.
Azarenka has had a difficult time resurrecting her tennis career after injury and motherhood issues saw her enter this year's Wimbledon championships ranked No.87.
