“WTA deepens connections with the Saudi government…,” Top Journalist shows concerns over WTA’s involvement with Saudi Government

Ben Rothenberg expresses concerns about tennis moving to the Middle East.

“WTA deepens connections with the Saudi government…,” Top Journalist shows concerns over WTA’s involvement with Saudi Government

Public Investment Fund (PIF), one of several premier sponsors for the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament, as seen on Stadium 2 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in Indian Wells (Via Imago)

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) have joined hands in a big way. They’ve announced a partnership where the PIF will be the first-ever sponsor of the WTA rankings.

This means they’ll be closely associated with the rankings for a number of years. This move follows the PIF’s earlier involvement in tennis, as they also struck a deal with the men’s Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) tour earlier this year.

However, popular tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg has expressed deep concerns about this development. He believes that the WTA may face challenges ahead by deepening ties with the Saudi government. The big question is whether the WTA can effectively use the money they’re receiving for initiatives that can strengthen and support the tour. This includes investing in a strong streaming service, improving tour promotion to increase grassroots interest, and more.

FS Video
WTA deepens connections with the Saudi government…now it’s a question of if WTA can successfully utilize this inflow of cash for things that can grow and sustain the tour, like a robust and streaming service and better promotion of the tour to grow grassroots interest.
Ben Rothenberg shared via X

This announcement is part of a significant change for the women’s tennis tour. Before, they were hesitant about partnering with Saudi Arabia. Steve Simon, the outgoing CEO, expressed concerns last year about Saudi Arabia hosting women’s tennis events. However, things took a turn in April when it was revealed that the season-ending WTA Finals will take place in Riyadh from 2024 to 2026. The Saudi Tennis Federation also offered a record-breaking prize money of $15.25 million for this year’s event.

The buzz around tennis in Saudi Arabia has been building momentum since Novak Djokovic played Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition match in the Middle East at the beginning of the season. Following that, Rafael Nadal has embraced the role of tennis ambassador for Saudia. Also, rumors about Roger Federer potentially bringing the Laver Cup to the Middle East are circulating. Now, with the announcement of the WTA-PIF partnership, the spice only grows.

Are WTA and ATP selling their soul by moving to Saudi Arabia?

Some people think Saudi Arabia giving money to tennis is good. They say it’s fair for the players who work hard. But others worry. They think Saudi Arabia is trying to hide its bad actions, like not treating women fairly.

PIF deal
ATP-PIF deal (Via Imago)

Saudi Arabia isn’t the only country with problems, but some say it’s worse. They point to how it treats people who speak out. Despite this, Saudi Arabia is offering a lot of money to athletes to play in its events. Even big critics like Rory McIlroy were tempted with millions.

Some former tennis stars, like Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, won’t support events in Saudi Arabia. They’re worried about its human rights record. But tennis has a history of working with controversial groups for money. Some people feel money matters more than doing what’s right in sports.

The debate continues in tennis circles. While money from Saudi Arabia is tempting, some players and fans worry about the message it sends. For example, Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov thinks the sport should stand for fairness and respect, not just money.

In case you missed it!