The Saudi Tennis Federation (STF) has set an ambitious goal: to inspire one million people to take up tennis by 2030. As the countdown begins for the WTA Finals in Riyadh, this historic event promises to ignite a tennis boom in Saudi Arabia. The announcement was made during the official launch ceremony of the WTA Finals Riyadh, and it marks a significant milestone for the countryâs sports landscape.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has been selected as the host city for the next three editions of the WTA Finals, spanning from 2024 to 2026. This prestigious tournament will feature the Top 8 singles players and doubles teams in the Race to the WTA Finals. The decision to choose Riyadh followed a rigorous evaluation process, considering factors such as the ability to deliver a world-class event, support for prize money growth, and commitment to the sportâs long-term development.
Record Prize Money and Broader Investment
The partnership between the WTA and the Saudi Tennis Federation ensures record prize money for the WTA Finals. In 2024, the tournament will offer an impressive $15.25 million in prize funds, with further increases planned for 2025 and 2026. Beyond financial incentives, the collaboration aims to boost womenâs tennis globally. Investments in marketing, digital engagement, and fan outreach will expand the sportâs reach and appeal to new audiences.
Tennis at the Grassroots Level
While hosting the WTA Finals is a major achievement, Saudi Arabiaâs tennis growth extends beyond the professional circuit. At the grassroots level, tennis is flourishing. The number of clubs has doubled in the last five years, and both girls and boys actively participate in the sport. In 2023 alone, approximately 30,000 schoolchildren took their first steps in tennis, and plans are underway to introduce the game to nearly 60,000 more girls and boys in 2024. The WTA and the Saudi Tennis Federation will collaborate on multi-year initiatives to engage and inspire young players, leveraging the expertise of leading WTA athletes.
As Arij Mutabagani, the first elected female president of any Saudi Arabian sports federation, aptly puts it: âHosting the WTA Finals is absolutely huge for the future of tennis in Saudi Arabia and growing sport in general, especially amongst our young girls.â The WTA Finals in Riyadh represents not only a sporting spectacle but also a catalyst for positive change and empowerment in the world of tennis.
