$2 Billon Saudi Deal: American Tennis Voice Brad Gilbert Raises Concern Over Massive Conflict of Interest From the ATP and WTA Tour CEOs

Earlier this week, a massive deal was doing the rounds in the tennis world. Saudi Arabia’s PIF launched a jaw-dropping $2 billion bid to take over the ATP and the WTA Tours. It intended to merge these two entities, if successful. Moments after the news broke out, the tennis world was left divided on the matter. Legendary coach, Brad Gilbert, highlighted a major concern that could crop up issues in this deal.

Saudi’s involvement in tennis is growing with each passing day. Last year, the ATP Next Gen Finals was held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Let’s find out what Gilbert had to say about this deal.

Brad Gilbert points out a major concern on the Saudi deal

Coco Gauff’s coach, Brad Gilbert, never shies away from talking about sensitive topics. One such matter was Saudi’s PIF’s massive bid to take over the ATP and the WTA Tours. However, Gilbert revealed a major concern about this deal. During an interview, he said, “It’s a good thing we’re getting the ball rolling. A couple of things that definitely need to be addressed, both tours, the ATP and the WTA.”

Further, he went on to add, “It doesn’t work like this in professional sports that the CEO represents the players and the tournament. So that is a direct conflict of interest that the CEO represents both the sides.”

This deal could swing tennis’ future either way. While the investment will help bolster the sport’s dwindling viewership with new concepts, it could also harm the sport with Saudi links. As a result, the tennis world is divided on this matter. Some legends, including John McEnroe’s brother, expressed shock at this deal.

Patrick McEnroe’s brother believes a lot more money might be coming in for tennis players

The deal was brought to light at the ongoing Indian Wells Masters tournament by the ATP head, Andrea Gaudenzi. Patrick McEnroe was shocked to hear about this establishment.

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He said, “We’re shocked at what has happened in the last week here in the desert at Indian Well that this offer came through from the ATP head, Andrea Gaudenzi…There’ll be a lot more money coming to the players I think in the next few years. Whether that comes directly from the Saudis or they have control over the Tour. I think that is the big question.”

It remains to be seen how the deal pans out in the future. Nonetheless, tennis fans will hope for a positive outcome and that action stays on the court more than off it.