SAUDI ARABIA EYES HOSTING 2024 WTA FINALS DESPITE HUMAN RIGHTS CONCERNS
Saudi Arabia, known for its heavy investments in various sports, is now setting its sights on women’s tennis. The nation is reportedly in talks to host the 2024 WTA Finals, although a deal has yet to be finalized.
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has acknowledged the ongoing discussions, stating, “As everyone knows, we are working through a process to select a host venue for the WTA Finals. There has been no final decision, and we will continue to engage with players through the ongoing process.”
While negotiations between WTA executive Steve Simon and Saudi officials have been ongoing, an anonymous official revealed that the potential partnership is “the worst kept secret in the sport.” Last summer, a deal was almost reached but was ultimately abandoned due to public pressure.
The move to secure a top tournament has been in Saudi Arabia’s plans since the middle of last year, with the nation already set to host the World Cup in 2034. However, concerns regarding the country’s human rights record may pose a significant obstacle in finalizing the deal with the WTA.
Saudi Arabia has long been criticized for its treatment of women, as the country operates under a male guardianship system. This system denies equal rights to female citizens, resulting in various inequities in the workplace, relationships, and government.
Despite these concerns, some tennis stars have expressed differing opinions on the matter. U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff voiced her disapproval of the situation in Saudi Arabia but suggested that if the tournament were to take place there, efforts should be made to enact positive change and engage with local communities.
In contrast, tennis legend Billie Jean King supports holding the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia, arguing that engagement with the government is the best way to bring about change. On the men’s side, Rafael Nadal is set to become an ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s tennis federation, while Novak Djokovic favors further Saudi investment in the sport.
The issue of hosting the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia has sparked a debate within the tennis community, with prominent figures expressing their concerns or support. As discussions continue, the world awaits a final decision on whether the tournament will take place in the controversial Middle Eastern nation.
