Saudi Arabia to become official sponsor of WTA women’s tennis rankings – NBC10 Philadelphia

Saudi Arabia’s foray into the world of tennis has taken another significant step with the announcement of a multiyear sponsorship deal with the WTA women’s rankings. The partnership agreement between the WTA and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) comes on the heels of the kingdom’s recent hosting of the tour’s season-ending championships in Riyadh and its sponsorship of the ATP men’s rankings.

The PIF is now the first naming-rights partner for the WTA rankings, marking a new chapter in the sport’s relationship with the Middle Eastern nation. The deal, which spans five years, also includes plans to promote tennis at grassroots levels, signaling a commitment to growing the sport in the region.

The move has not been without controversy, as some former tennis stars have voiced concerns about engaging with Saudi Arabia due to ongoing human rights issues in the country. However, others, including equal rights pioneer Billie Jean King, have advocated for involvement as a means of promoting change.

In addition to the sponsorship deal, Saudi Arabia has been making waves in the world of sports, with investments in golf, soccer, and now tennis. The country’s influence in the sport is on the rise, with plans for high-profile events and partnerships with top players like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

With discussions underway for a potential top-tier tournament in Saudi Arabia, the country’s role in the tennis world is set to expand even further, reshaping the landscape of the sport for years to come.