The excitement is palpable at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, where the top eight players are battling it out for glory! But it’s missing one key element as fans were really hoping to see Ons Jabeur take part in what could have been her third time at the event. Sadly, she’s out this year due to a shoulder injury that’s kept her off the court. It would have been amazing for her to play at home, but she’s staying positive. Instead, she’s cheering on her fellow players and soaking up the atmosphere!

First things first, hosting the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia is a huge deal! The decision was announced in October 2023 after much discussion, generating mixed reactions. While many in the tennis community are excited about this unique opportunity, some critics, including tennis legend Martina Navratilova, have expressed concerns about the country’s human rights record. After the event’s first day, she tweeted her thoughts on the lack of crowd visibility, saying, “Finding it really weird not ever seeing the crowd when showing matches— not during the match and not at all after the match. Just odd….#WTAFinalsRiyadh.”

Despite the critics, Ons Jabeur is staying positive. She attended the inauguration and expressed her excitement to Arab News, saying, “I think it’s a great thing for women’s sport, for Arab women’s sport as well. It’s the biggest event that ever happened for women in Saudi. It’s an amazing step.” This year’s Finals also showcase a fantastic lineup of top players like Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and Elena Rybakina, bringing a thrilling mix of rivalry and determination after their time off the court.

While Ons may be down about not being part of the event, she acknowledges this fantastic opportunity for tennis to grow in her country. She added, “I’m very happy to be here in Riyadh, the WTA Finals is happening here.” Could you imagine the energy had she been part of it?

The Tunisian player has made waves globally with her impressive achievements. In 2022, she reached a career-high rank of No. 2 and became the first Arab player to reach the WTA Finals. She has since competed in three Grand Slam finals, finishing as the runner-up at Wimbledon in 2022 and 2023, as well as at the US Open in 2022. Over the past two years, she has clinched five titles, including the Ningbo Open and Charleston Open. Although sitting out of the Finals is disappointing, her efforts to promote the event don’t go unnoticed!

Jabeur’s heartfelt push for WTA Finals 2024 gets recognition!

Jabeur has not only made her mark in the tennis world but her influence is stronger than ever! On November 5th, Tennis influencer Blair Henley took to Instagram to celebrate her efforts to uplift female athletes in the Middle East. Henley wrote, “Ons has done so much to promote Arab tennis and encourage women and girls in this part of the world to chase their dreams in sports and beyond. Tennis is pretty darn lucky to have her. 🤍 @onsjabeur.”

Since turning pro in 2010, the 30-year-old has climbed the ranks to become a true tennis icon. Even when her journey hasn’t been without its challenges. But she’s all about setting a positive example for girls in Tunisia and beyond! Earlier in June during a pre-tournament press conference, she shared her hopes for the future and the advice she would give to future players. She said, “I tried to give the best example on and off the court. I wish to see more players from Tunisia and Africa because we have amazing talent.” As one of the few female tennis players from the Middle East, she’s definitely leaving a lasting impression!

Even though she’s not competing this year, Jabeur’s presence at events like the WTA Finals shows her commitment to promoting the sport she loves. Her journey proves that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. So, do you think we’ll see more of Ons at the Finals next year? Drop your thoughts in the comments!