Russian
tennis star Daria Kasatkina has stated that ‘money is not her number one priority’
in response to rumours of Saudi Arabia’s interest in buying stakes in the
sport.
There have
been some speculations in the media which suggested that the Middle Eastern
country is keen on buying stakes in tennis, something similar to what they’ve
done in golf.
The move seems
to be in line with the strategy adopted by Saudi Arabia in the recent past
where they are looking to invest heavily in all sports and use that to promote
their soft image.
Australia’s Nick
Kyrgios has been pretty vocal about the developments and has stated time and
again that he would be more than happy to receive a big paycheck.
Kasatkina,
in a recent comment, disagreed with the 2022 Wimbledon finalist and stated that
money is not her main priority.
“Many issues
concerning this country [Saudi Arabia],” she said. “It’s easier for men because
they feel pretty good there. We don’t feel the same way. As Nick Kyrgios said,
he’d be so happy to go there for a big check. For me, money is not my number
one priority.”
Kasatkina
has been in the news in the recent past regarding different political and social
views.
The
26-year-old recently stated before the start of the third Grand Slam of the
year that there is no chance of her returning to Russia because of her views
about the invasion of Ukraine and her sexual orientation.
Despite all off-the-field
drama, Kasatkina remains pretty efficient on the field where she has
booked her place in the third round of Wimbledon 2023 after registering a
thumping win against Britain’s Jodie Anna Burrage in straight sets in the
second round with a score of 6-0, 6-2.
She will now face the winner of the clash between Victoria
Azarenka and Nadia Podoroska in the third round.
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.