ATP signs multi-year strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund

On Wednesday, the governing body of men's tennis announced a multi-year strategic partnership between the ATP Tour and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). This collaboration underscores the increasing impact of the Gulf nation on the world of sports.

Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in various sports such as soccer, Formula One, boxing, and golf in recent years. Critics have accused the oil-rich kingdom of using PIF to "sportswash" its human rights record.

The country has denied allegations of human rights violations and emphasizes that it protects its national security through its laws.

The ATP announced that PIF will now be the official naming partner of the men's rankings and partner with ATP tournaments in Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Beijing, the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin, and the Next Gen ATP Finals held in Jeddah.

According to ATP CEO Massimo Calvelli, the strategic partnership with PIF signifies a significant moment for tennis.

The commitment to advancing the future of the sport, particularly through supporting the next generation, is expected to usher in a transformative period of progress.

In August, the ATP revealed that the Next Gen Finals for male players under 21 will be held in Jeddah until 2027, with the prize money reaching a record $2 million.

Mohamed AlSayyad, Head of Corporate Brand at PIF, stated, "PIF will act as a catalyst for the growth of the global tennis scene, nurturing talent, promoting inclusivity, and fostering sustainable innovation through our partnership with ATP."

He added, "This collaboration is in line with our overarching goal to improve the quality of life and bring about transformative changes in sports, both locally in Saudi Arabia and on a global scale."