John McEnroe‘s recent remarks about hosting the 2024 WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia have sparked controversy.
During an ESPN conference call before the Australian Open, McEnroe expressed skepticism about reports that Saudi Arabia could expand its influence in the tennis world by acquiring high-profile events, notably the Miami Open and Madrid Open.
According to reports, Saudi Arabia is in preliminary talks with IMG about purchasing the Miami Open and Madrid Open, both elite-level 1000 tournaments.
McEnroe, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, acknowledged the financial attractiveness but expressed his displeasure with the move, particularly given Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
The ladies are going to play the WTA Finals there? Are you kidding me? Because they treat women so well? That part is to me laughable. McEnroe remarked via Forbes
Although he is not completely surprised by the decision, as per the former tennis professional, he understands this deal because it has to do with the pooling of millions of dollars.
Ultimately, the WTA will profit from conducting their matches there, as they will be offered a grand sum.
John McEnroe voices his opinion on hosting the 2024 WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia
John McEnroe voiced his belief that Saudi Arabia would obtain the aforementioned competitions, considering their growing influence in tennis.
In August, the ATP announced that the Saudis would host the Next Gen Finals from 2023 to 2027. The kingdom has also hosted exhibitions, including matches between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz.
Several top women’s players stated at the US Open that they would be “happy” to play the Tour Finals in Saudi Arabia because the kingdom would be investing heavily, while others expressed worries about the country’s appalling human rights record. Ons Jabeur was one such player who appreciated the move as an Arab woman.
I'm concerned. We'll see what happens. I'd be surprised if the Saudis don't buy those tournaments actually. He added
That’s not all; the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is also rumored to be interested in purchasing Tennis Australia’s mixed national team tournament, the United Cup.
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