Iga Swiatek was asked about Rafa Nadal becoming an ambassador for Saudi Tennis Federation “It was announced earlier today that Rafael Nadal is going to be an ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Foundation. Given the nation's track record on human rights, especially with women, how…
"It's not easy for women in these areas": Iga Swiatek admits difficulty in commenting on Saudi Arabia amid Nadal role
WTATuesday, 16 January 2024 at 20:00
Rafael Nadal becoming a Saudi Arabia ambassador and Alexander Zverev still being on the Players' Council and playing while being subject to a domestic abuse case were some of the questions levied to WTA World Number One, Iga Swiatek as journalists aimed for an angle instead of her win over Sofia Kenin.
Swiatek who is known to have lauded Nadal in the past spoke in depth about the Saudi Arabia topic and how in reality it is difficult for her to comment knowing the potential WTA Finals destination in the future and the issues surrounding women in these countries so she can't say yes or no if it is good or not.
“I didn't know that this is the case. Well, I feel like it's not black & white, everything that's going on, in the sport. It's hard for me to sum up in 1 sentence. There were a lot of rumors about WTA Finals going to Saudi. We're still waiting for the decision. It was always hard for me to say if it's good or not because it's not easy for women in these areas," said Swiatek.
"Obviously these countries also want to change & improve politically & sociologically. It's not easy to decide. Also in terms of many events that were held, there were rumors about sportswashing. In my case, because I have nothing to do with Rafa & his decisions, it should be up to the federations & the governing bodies who decide if we're going to play there or not. If there would be some negative backlash, they should take the responsibility. For me it's hard to straightforwardly go one way & say anything. I didn't even know about Rafa's decision. Obviously men's sport is already there in Saudi. I don't know if it's a good decision or not. I'm kind of trying not to be too up front. Sorry (smiling)”
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