Journalists with links to the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Finals have reported that the tournament has decided not to renew its contract with Saudi Arabia, which is due to expire soon. The decision is said to be based on several factors, including:

▪️Human rights reports concerning Saudi Arabia, which have negatively affected the reputation of both the association and the tournament.
▪️Reports indicating that the tournament has been used as part of a “sportswashing” effort by the Saudi government.
▪️Pressure from human rights organisations on the association.
▪️Objections from the majority of players, with many reportedly unwilling to remain in Saudi Arabia.

The Women’s Tennis Association is headquartered in Florida, United States. In 2024, it signed a three-year agreement with Saudi Arabia to host the tournament. Under the terms of the deal, a decision on a further three-year extension was to be made following an evaluation of the experience; however, a final decision has now been taken not to renew the agreement for the reasons outlined above.