Saudi Arabia to host WTA Finals women’s tennis event in Riyadh from 2024-2026

Saudi Arabia has secured the hosting rights for the next three editions of the WTA Finals, the prestigious season-ending event of the women’s tennis tour. The announcement came with a significant increase in prize money, with this November’s tournament offering a record $15.25 million in total prize money, a 70% increase from the previous year.

The capital city of Riyadh will be the venue for the top eight singles players and top eight doubles teams from November 2-9, as well as for the 2025 and 2026 editions of the tournament. This move is part of Saudi Arabia’s recent push to invest in tennis and other sports, despite concerns raised by tennis legends Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova regarding LGBTQ+ and women’s rights in the country.

WTA Tour Chairman and CEO Steve Simon acknowledged the controversial nature of the partnership with Saudi Arabia but emphasized the tour’s commitment to developing women’s tennis globally. He stated that players will have the freedom to make their own choices about participating in the event.

The decision to host the WTA Finals in Riyadh was made in late December, with the details of the agreement finalized recently. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s increasing involvement in sports, including the formation of the LIV Golf tour and investments in Premier League side Newcastle. The country is also set to host the ATP Tour’s Next Gen Finals and an exhibition event featuring top tennis stars.

Despite the progress in social reforms in Saudi Arabia, concerns remain about discrimination against women and LGBTQ+ individuals. The WTA’s decision to bring the Finals to the country has sparked debate among players and activists, highlighting the complex intersection of sports, politics, and human rights.