Despite Honest Rafael Nadal Admission, Caroline Wozniacki Slaps ‘Inevitable’ Tag on Saudi Arabia’s Role in Shaping Tennis’ Future

Caroline Wozniacki dropped her exclusive bits about Saudi Arabia’s influence over the ATP and the WTA. This former world’s No. 1 returned to tennis after suddenly retiring in 2019. After returning to the professional sport, Wozniacki won against Magda Linette in the first round of the Australian Open 2024. Following her victory, Wozniacki was asked about her opinion of Rafael Nadal’s news. Despite not going straight in the case, this tennis star expressed her opinion.

Nadal has been appointed as the Saudi Tennis Federation’s new Brand Ambassador. This news has caused much controversy following the WTA’s challenge with the country regarding women players’ safety and comfort. Now, Wozniacki also expressed her opinion on this sensitive matter.

Despite ignoring Nadal’s case, Caroline Wozniacki dropped an alarming opinion about Saudi Arabia’s inevitable dominance of tennis

In a press conference, when a reporter asked Wozniacki about what she felt about Nadal being STF’s next face, she did not directly comment about the Spanish tennis legend. However, she said, “Honestly, I haven’t read much up on Rafa and what he’s doing, but obviously Saudi is coming into sports in a very strong way. I think both in golf and football or soccer and now in tennis. I think it’s inevitable that that’s going to happen, and I think when that does happen, I think we have a chance to make a change and do something good there.”

Wozniacki further spoke about the influence of money in this aspect. She added, “I obviously realize, you know, the human rights and everything else, but I think when it’s inevitable that they have so much money to put into sports.” 

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However, this tennis star believes in putting in a reasonable effort. She relies on the work of the players and associations to maintain their ethics. She said, “I think when you’re put in that situation, you can maybe change, make a change and do something positive.”

Caroline Wozniacki brims in confidence as she hopes to win the Grand Slam

After defeating Magda Linette, Wozniacki dropped pretty confident responses. She said, “I felt I played really well, I tried to take the ball early, tried to be aggressive. I still feel my serve could be a little better, but hopefully, in the next match, that’s going to happen.” Wozniacki will face Maria Timofeeva in the second round. While asking about her preparations, Wozniacki expressed a great hope of winning. She commented, “The dream is to win it obviously, I’ve worked hard to be here, to be back at this stage – I didn’t think I’d be back here. It’s really a bonus. I’m just really grateful to be out here, but I really feel like I’m playing well, so why not me?”

Despite not speaking much about Nadal, Wozniacki brings out the issues of Saudi Arabian money trying to dominate the tennis scene. However, she also felt that with good leadership and proper ethics, the WTA and the ATP can ensure players’ freedom, safety, and comfort while partnering with Saudi Arabia.

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