He ATP tour and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) they signed a multi-year strategic partnershipthe governing body of men’s tennis said on Wednesday in a move that highlights the Gulf nation’s growing influence in global sport.
The PIF will be the official partner of the men’s rankas well as the relevant ATP tournaments in Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Beijing, the ATP Finals end of the season in Turin and the ATP Next Gen Finals held in Jeddah.
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in various sports such as football, Formula One, boxing and golf in recent years, while critics have accused the oil-rich kingdom of using the PIF to “sportswash” record of its rights. people.
The country denies allegations of human rights abuses and says it protects its national security through its laws.
The ATP said the PIF is committed to developing and unlocking opportunities for young players. and will also contribute to their OneVision Strategic Plan focused on unity, improving fan experiences and capitalizing on growth opportunities.
“Our strategic partnership with the PIF marks an important moment for tennis”said the ATP executive director, Massimo Calvelliit is a statement.
“This is a shared commitment to drive the future of sport. With the PIF’s dedication to the next generation, fostering innovation and creating opportunities for all, the stage is set for a transformative new phase of development.”
In August, the ATP announced that its Next Gen Finals for under-21 men’s players will be held in Jeddah until 2027 and that prize money will increase to a record $2 million.
“Through our partnership with the ATP, the PIF will be a catalyst for the growth of the global tennis scene.developing talent, strengthening inclusion and driving sustainable innovation,” said Mohamed AlSayyad, corporate brand director at PIF.
“This strategic partnership aligns with our broader vision to improve the quality of life and drive the transformation of sport in Saudi Arabia and around the world.”
Saudi Arabia will also host a new elite tennis exhibition tournament in which they will participate Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and three other Grand Slam champions in October. Nadal was named ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Federation last month.
Debate over Saudi Arabia hosting the women’s WTA Finals has also intensified, with tennis greats Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova opposing the move, prompting sharp criticism from the Saudi ambassador to United States.
Source: La Verdad
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