Investments from major sources around the world are one way through which prize money in sports can increase. However, one possible new investment in tennis has become quite contentious. The Public Investment Fund from Saudi Arabia has become interested in investing in tennis. Many players are lashing out against it, and many are supporting it. One tennis player from Egypt, Mayar Sherif, is in support of the investment, but she agrees with the opposing party as well about the issues with the investment, joining Nick Kyrgios.
The Egyptian WTA player joined the Aussie bad boy, who has stated his support for the investment. Carrying his controversial image forward, Kyrgios once again landed in hot water when he spoke in favor of the PIF investing in the ATP.
Egyptian tennis star joins Nick Kyrgios in supporting new investments
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Mayar Sherif is a 27-year-old WTA player from Egypt. Currently ranked 31, Sherif is climbing the ladder of competitive tennis quickly. Learning about the possible investment of PIF in tennis, Sherif had a positive outlook on it during her interview with the Associated Press. When questioned about the state of women in the country, Sherif said that she understood that it was tumultuous.
“I know it’s not the best,” said the Egyptian in a straightforward manner. The Wimbledon debutant then said that women’s rights certainly need to be improved in the country and change from outside can be best.
“Women’s rights in the Arabic world need to improve. … If you start changing this from the outside by bringing in tournaments, and start to create a different kind of atmosphere, that’s going to help.”
She further explained her thought process, stating, “If you put women with skirts — and so on and so forth — on court, maybe one young girl from Saudi Arabia sees the matches there and says, ‘I want to play tennis. I want to be like those girls.’ And that’s a way to change a mindset.”
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While Sherif has spoken out about the investment, she has joined Kyrgios in the name of stars supporting the investment.
Kyrgios in support of PIF investment
Before any player could speak out about the possible venture, Kyrgios was already praising the possible chance of investment. The controversial figure landed in hot waters once again as he supported the Saudi Arabian involvement in the sport. As soon as the news of the possible deal went viral, Kyrgios was quick to share his support.
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The four ATP 500 titles holder believes that players on tour deserve more than the current structure of the ATP payment, therefore he is showing his support. What do you think about the deal?