WTA signs multi-year partnership with Saudi Public Investment Fund

The WTA and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) revealed on Monday a groundbreaking multi-year partnership, with the PIF set to be the inaugural naming partner of the WTA's rankings.

The declaration signifies the PIF's most recent venture into tennis following the men's ATP tour also securing a multi-year "strategic partnership" earlier this year.

"We are excited to witness the journey of our skilled players throughout the season, as we strive to expand the sport, attract more tennis enthusiasts, and motivate more young individuals to engage in the game," stated WTA Ventures CEO Marina Storti.

This announcement represents the most recent development in a significant transformation by the women's tour, which had previously been hesitant to engage in a partnership with Saudi Arabia.

Former CEO Steve Simon mentioned last year that Saudi Arabia presented "significant challenges" as a host for women's tennis tournaments.

Nonetheless, it was revealed in April that the WTA Finals will take place in the Saudi capital Riyadh from 2024-2026, with the Saudi Tennis Federation providing a record prize money of $15.25 million this year.

Despite opposition from retired legends Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, as well as Russian player Daria Kasatkina, who publicly came out as gay in 2022, expressing concerns.

Women's rights activists and LGBTQ community members criticized the country for "sports-washing," condemning Saudi Arabia's human rights track record as it invests substantial sums of money in soccer, Formula One, and the LIV Golf circuit.

Mohamed AlSayyad, head of corporate brand at PIF, stated that the organization would "continue to be a driving force for the advancement of women's sports."

"We are eager to collaborate with the WTA to boost participation and inspire the upcoming generation of talent," he stated in a release.