WTA Move to Saudi Arabia Looks Inevitable as Latest Statement Confirms Fears of Yesteryear Legends

The 2023 WTA Finals were not enjoyed by everyone. It was held in Cancun, Mexico, and the windy conditions and volatile weather disrupted the play many times. The location became controversial due to the bad weather in the Mexican city. Good news for WTA stars: they won’t have to play in the city again. But the new location is bound to cause controversy itself. 

The location where the WTA finals might be held next year has been contested by participants of the sport many times. Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have spoken against it many times. But the deed is now done. 

WTA Finals 2024 likely to be played in a brand-new location

The 2023 WTA Finals saw immense problems as the weather in Cancun did not allow for play to take place smoothly. The surface was also not of much help, and the players talked about the bad conditions after every match. There is some good news in store for them, as the year-end WTA tournament will not take place there again anytime soon. However, the place in discussion for next year is bound to cause some controversy itself. 

The tournament has a great chance of being played in Saudi Arabia. A WTA spokesperson said, “We are in discussions with various groups surrounding the 2024 WTA Finals and beyond and have not made any decisions at this time. As with all WTA decisions, we are working closely with players and focused on continuing to build a strong future for women’s tennis.”

Saudi Arabia is dabbling in the women’s side of sport and is also looking to get into the ATP. The country is hoping to hold an ATP 1000 tournament soon. 

Read More: Unable to Digest $650,000,000,000 Saudi Fund Making In-Road in Tennis, Chris Evert Delivers Poignant Message on WTA’s 50th Anniversary Condemning the Move

Their involvement in the world of sports has increased recently. But stars like Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova are against the inclusion of Saudi Arabia, citing women’s inequality.

WTA Iconic duo against Saudi Arabia inclusion

Chris Evert was one of the first icons of the sport to speak out against the possibility of a partnership between the WTA and Saudi Arabia. When talks were being held, she vehemently stated that the WTA stood for equality and has been a role model to other sports. Given the organization has made decisions with integrity and dignity, they should not take funding from Saudi Arabia.

Martina Navratilova supported her long-time rival and close friend. She followed suit by saying that if she were an active player, she would never go to the country to play any tournament. The issues have been talked about by various other tennis personalities as well. There is a great chance Saudi Arabia will get more tennis soon, but the level of tournaments is yet to be declared.

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