Tennis News: Andy Roddick Finds Saudi Arabia’s Deal ‘Icky’ After Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic’s Astounding Decision

Recently, Saudi Arabia has been making much noise in the sporting world. From soccer to golf, the nation is drawing attention by splurging on events to take it on a global stage. Tennis hasn’t been left behind in this matter. Hours ago, it was revealed that Saudi Arabia is coming up with a new event, the ‘6 Kings Slam’ later this year. Amid this, American tennis legend, Andy Roddick gave his honest take on the country’s involvement in sports.

Many renowned players are known to be participating in this new tournament. Stars like Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Carlos Alcaraz are set to play in the 6 Kings Slam event. Let’s find out what Roddick had to say about it.

Andy Roddick criticizes Saudi Arabia’s influence in the sporting world

Hours ago, a new episode of the ‘Served with Andy Roddick’ dropped. During the episode, the American tennis legend opened up about how Saudi Arabia is using money and power to buy into its sporting vision. He gave an example of LIV Golf to explain his position.

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Roddick said, “Yeah so, I have been on record saying I wouldn’t have left to play for LIV. The PGA Tour is pretty good. I think they have 45-minute flights for the next four weeks between the two events, all open down the West Coast for a lot of money.”

Further, he went on to add, “But the biggest thing for me, I can say no to money because I’m a capitalist in life, I like to go get things, I believe in free markets but I also don’t like doing things if they feel gross, and if they feel a little bit icky.”

Meanwhile, there have been growing talks about Saudi Arabia hosting the WTA Finals. However, World Number 1, Iga Swiatek, remains concerned with this update.

What did Iga Swiatek say about WTA going the Saudi Arabia way?

The WTA is contemplating tying up with Saudi Arabia and hosting the WTA finals. However, this subject has received firm objections from the likes of Martina Navratilova and fellow tennis stars, including Iga Swiatek.

The Polish star said, “There were a lot of rumors about WTA Finals going to Saudi. We’re still waiting for the decision. It was always hard for me to say if it’s good or not because it’s not easy for women in these areas. Obviously, these countries also want to change and improve politically and sociologically. It’s not easy to decide.”

While the WTA is still undecided on the Saudi decision for the WTA Finals, ATP stars like Nadal and Djokovic are already heading to play in that country. Only time can tell about the magnitude of this decision.

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