Saudi Arabia has been designated as the host country for the 2024 WTA Finals, marking a significant development announced Thursday by the women’s professional tennis tour.
This decision, part of a three-year agreement, brings a remarkable boost to the prize money for this year’s season-ending championship, which will now stand at a record-breaking $15.25 million. This represents a substantial 70% increase from the previous year’s figure in 2023.
Scheduled to take place in Riyadh from 2024 to 2026, the event will gather the top eight singles players and top eight doubles teams. This move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s recent efforts to invest in various sports, including tennis, despite lingering concerns raised by prominent figures such as Hall of Famers Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova regarding LGBTQ+ and women’s rights in the country.
Steve Simon, Chairman and CEO of the WTA Tour, emphasized the organization’s awareness of differing viewpoints regarding Saudi Arabia’s investment in sports. He highlighted discussions held with Evert and Navratilova, acknowledging their concerns along with those of other stakeholders. Simon reiterated the WTA’s commitment to promoting women’s tennis globally, underscoring the tour’s diverse participation spanning over 90 nations.
Addressing potential apprehensions among current players regarding the choice of venue, Simon emphasized the autonomy of players in making their decisions, expressing confidence that all qualifying players would choose to participate.
While exploring various locations, including Europe, North America, and Asia, for the WTA Finals, Riyadh emerged as the chosen destination. Simon clarified that Riyadh was officially selected in late December, with the details of the agreement finalized recently.
The partnership between the WTA and Saudi Arabia reflects a strategic move to tap into a rapidly growing sports market. Simon anticipates further collaboration with the region, suggesting potential future events. Saudi Arabia’s increasing involvement in sports is evident through initiatives such as the LIV Golf Tour and sponsorship in soccer.
Despite progressive reforms in recent years, including granting women the right to drive and relaxing certain societal norms, challenges persist regarding discrimination and LGBTQ+ rights. However, the Saudi government has undertaken significant social reforms, albeit against a backdrop of ongoing human rights concerns.
Notably, criticism from Evert and Navratilova prompted a response from Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States, Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud. The ambassador challenged what she described as outdated perceptions, urging recognition of the changes underway in the region.
The WTA reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality in tennis, citing the increased prize money for the Finals as part of its efforts to align pay with men’s tennis. The substantial increase in prize money for the 2024 Finals, set to rise further in subsequent years, marks a significant step toward achieving this goal, surpassing previous records.
