Pegula believes WTA Saudi Arabia deal could help with equal prize money: "Though there are negatives"

Jessica Pegula expressed her opinion that a partnership between the WTA and Saudi Arabia could help with equal prize money.

The world No. 4 is ready to face her compatriot Lauren Davis in the first round of the 2023 Wimbledon. Pegula comes in as the 4th seed, which allows her to avoid higher-ranked players in the early rounds. She aims to surpass her best Wimbledon performance from 2022, where she reached the third round but was defeated by Petra Martic in straight sets.

Recently, there has been widespread discussion about a potential agreement between the WTA and Saudi Arabia to host tournaments in the country. Saudi Arabia plans to make a significant investment in tennis, similar to what they have done with Formula One, the LIV Golf circuit, and their football clubs.

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While WTA CEO Steve Simon stated that nothing is certain yet, the potential offer from Saudi Arabia could contribute to improving the prize money in the WTA, and Pegula expressed support for this possible agreement.

"If they (Saudi Arabia) could help getting us to equal prize money, though there are negatives, there's a lot of positives that can come out of it," Pegula added.

"Hopefully we don't just look at the negatives and we can see the positives. Hopefully something good comes out of it the right way.

The potential agreement would also involve the ATP, although not all players have shown their agreement. Players like Carlos Alcaraz and Nick Kyrgios have already expressed their support and willingness to play tournaments in Saudi Arabia. However, John McEnroe stated that tennis should not seek investments in that country, and Andy Murray mentioned that he would have to seriously consider playing tournaments there, as he has previously declined to participate in exhibitions.

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The dilemma arises from the challenging human rights situation in the Arab country, particularly concerning gender equality and the rights of the LGBT community

"It's tough because… there's obviously issues there. I also think there's issues in a lot of countries. Sometimes things don't get talked about as well," Pegula said.

“I trust Steve to make the right decision on what he feels is best for the WTA."

Elisa

@elissetennis

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