Overview
- Saudi Arabia has been awarded a Masters 1000 starting in 2028, creating a 10th event in the category and its first expansion.
- Early reporting indicates a one-week, 56-player, non-mandatory tournament, with February discussed as a likely slot rather than a confirmed date.
- The current Middle East swing already includes Doha and Dubai, and outlets report the new event could trigger calendar changes, with the South American swing cited as vulnerable.
- Saudi influence has grown through staging the WTA Finals and Next Gen ATP Finals and is expected to be backed by very large prize money to draw top players.
- Tim Henman welcomes the addition despite scheduling questions, while Laura Robson argues a grass-court Masters is unlikely under current logistical and infrastructure constraints.