Sparse Crowds at WTA Finals in Riyadh Stir Criticism

Despite featuring top players and a record prize pool, the WTA Finals in Riyadh struggle to attract local audiences.

The WTA Finals in Riyadh have seen low attendance, with only about 400 spectators on the event's opening days.
Fans and experts criticize the choice of Riyadh as a venue, questioning the local interest in women's tennis despite low ticket prices.
Prominent figures, like Tim Henman, express disappointment over the world's best players performing to nearly empty stands.
The event's significant prize pool, increased from $9M to $15.25M, has sparked debates about the motivations behind hosting in Saudi Arabia.
The WTA defends the venue choice, citing efforts to introduce tennis to new audiences and anticipating higher attendance as the week progresses.