Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence in Tennis
Saudi Arabia continues to broaden its influence in the world of tennis, exemplified by Paula Badosa’s recent appointment as an ambassador for the Public Investment Fund (PIF). This move follows a series of controversial investments in golf that sparked debates among players and fans alike. However, the Kingdom has opted for a more collaborative stance within tennis, which has seen both the WTA and ATP Tours welcoming the influx of funding from PIF. Notably, the ATP rankings prominently feature the fund’s name, enhancing its visibility on a global scale.
Key Events and Investments
Although no official ATP events are held in Saudi Arabia, the country hosts the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, which, despite being an exhibition, draws top talents from around the globe. The upcoming event later this month will showcase elite players like Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and Jannik Sinner.
The investment from PIF on the WTA side is even more significant. Last year, Riyadh hosted the WTA Finals, a prestigious tournament won by American star Coco Gauff, and this arrangement will continue through at least 2025 and 2026. Furthermore, PIF’s financial support has been pivotal in establishing a maternity fund for female players, offering them up to a year of paid leave after childbirth.
Ambassadors and Personal Journeys
In a strategic move to enhance its international footprint, Saudi Arabia is also appointing prominent tennis figures as ambassadors. Rafael Nadal notably became an ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Federation at the beginning of 2024. Following in his footsteps, Badosa’s announcement as a PIF ambassador aligns her personal journey in tennis with the fund’s vision for the sport.
“When I look back at my career, I think tennis gave me everything. It made me the person I am today,”
Badosa reflected on how tennis has greatly influenced her life, attributing her success and identity to the sport. She emphasized her eagerness to inspire young athletes, encouraging them to believe in themselves despite challenges. According to her, aligning with PIF was motivated by shared values and aspirations to uplift the next generation.
“PIF is advancing tennis, empowering future talents, and creating opportunities for all. This partnership represents more than just funding; it embodies the potential to shape tennis’s future,”
she noted.
Challenges and Skepticism
Despite her enthusiasm, some skeptics question the sincerity behind such partnerships, pointing to the substantial financial incentives provided to ambassadors. After overcoming a difficult period marked by back injuries, Badosa’s new role may be especially meaningful as she seeks to give back to the sport that has given her so much.
