WTA Finals to be Held in Saudi Arabia Amid Controversy and Hope for Change

The WTA Tour announces a three-year deal to host the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia, sparking debates over women's and LGBTQ+ rights while raising hopes for positive change.

The WTA Tour has struck a three-year agreement to stage its WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia from 2024-26, with a record prize money of $15.25 million.
Tennis legends Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova express concerns over women's and LGBTQ+ rights in Saudi Arabia, while others see an opportunity for positive impact.
WTA stars Ons Jabeur and Jessica Pegula voice support for the move, highlighting the potential for inspirational change in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia's investment in sports, including tennis, is part of broader social reforms, although significant challenges remain regarding rights issues.
The deal is seen as a step towards equalizing prize money between men's and women's tennis, in line with the WTA's commitment to pay equity.