The WTA Finals is reportedly set to be held in Saudi Arabia for the next three years. This has been in the rumour mill for a while and appears to be gaining more traction after Polish media stated that a deal is almost done.
Saudi Arabia has made its impact on the sporting world over the last few years, notably with the breakaway LIV Golf league, which has led people to speculate whether tennis will introduce something similar. The Next Gen ATP Finals took place in Jeddah at the end of last year and it appears another season ending event will follow suit.
"Blood money"
The Middle Eastern country has been criticised for its human rights record and alleged Sportswashing, and tennis fans voiced their opinion about the Tour taking one of its biggest tournaments to the Gulf State.
"It is being reported that the WTA Finals will be held in the Saudi Arabia capital city of Riyadh through 2026. This is such sad and upsetting news. Just like how the WTA gave in to China with Peng Shuai, they are now taking blood money from the Saudi's," responded one user.
Another said the WTA have no right to talk about equality if the move goes through. "If this is true, don't want to hear anything from the WTA about "equality" since they're willingly moving the biggest event on their calendar to a place where women are treated as second-class citizens. Actions speak louder than words."
The ATP recently signed a strategic partnership deal with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) last month. The PIF will be the official naming partner of six men's tournaments in the future, including the ATP Finals and Indian Wells.
