US Edition
Following Venus Williams’ Comment on Health Insurance, Here’s What to Know About Athlete Coverage
UNITED STATES, JUL 25 – Venus Williams’ remarks expose uneven health insurance policies across major U.S. sports leagues, with some offering lifetime coverage and others limiting post-retirement benefits.
- Venus Williams, 45, said, `'I had to come back for the insurance,'` highlighting concerns about athlete health coverage during her recent D.C. Open win.
- Under WTA rules, Williams said this year that players who lose eligibility can enroll in COBRA for up to 18 months, and she stated, `They informed me this year that I’m on COBRA.`
- Across major U.S. leagues, NBA retirees with at least three years of service receive full health coverage; NFL retirees can stay on the league plan for five years; and WNBA athletes with eight years can get up to $20,000 annually for fertility costs.
- Her comment led to questions about health insurance in the sports world, while WNBA players are fighting for retirement healthcare as talks last weekend failed to reach an agreement.
- In the minors, players who leave lose health coverage; MLB veterans with at least four years can pay premiums; NHL retirees who played over 160 games may buy subsidized insurance.
20 Articles
20 Articles
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After Venus Williams’ comment on health insurance, here’s what to know about athlete coverage
Venus Williams’ recent singles win at the DC Open showcased her longevity and brought attention to health coverage for aging athletes after a joking comment she made in an on-court interview. “I had to come back for the insurance,” the five-time Wimbledon champion said after Tuesday’s match, her first in 16 months. “They informed me this year that I’m on COBRA, so it’s like, I got to get my benefits on.” The 45-year-old Williams, who has won sev…
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