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Criticism of the long-awaited move in Saudi Arabia has been led by Navratilova and Evert, who wrote an opinion article for the Washington Post in January.
“Hosting a tournament there would be a significant step forward that would be detrimental not only to the women’s game, but to women as a whole,” the pair wrote.
Human Rights Watch told the BBC in December that Saudi courts had convicted people for promoting homosexuality online and that “LGBT people in Saudi Arabia practice extreme self-censorship just to survive their daily lives.” have to do”.
Daria Kasatkina, who is in a lesbian relationship, is the only top player to have expressed opposition to going to Saudi. Jabeur had previously said that she would be “very excited” to play for the country.
Critics say the unprecedented spending on the Games has been used to improve the reputation of the oil-producing state’s human rights record and its environmental impact.
But the Saudi government says the investment is boosting the economy, opening it up to tourism and inspiring people to be more active.
Simon added, “We’ve had direct discussions with players, and we’ve had some people from the LGBTQ+ community join us on some of the trips we’ve taken there.”
“We have also done a lot of research into some of the other sporting events held there, and have only found positive experiences within the area.”
Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, sports minister and president of the Saudi Arabian Olympic and Paralympic Committee, says the announcement is an important moment for the country.
“Having a women’s tournament of this magnitude is a defining moment for tennis in Saudi Arabia,” Al Faisal said.
“The WTA Finals has the power to inspire beyond sport, especially our young girls and women.”
Areej Almutabagani, who in 2021 became the first woman elected to run one of the country’s sports federations, said: “Everyone will be made to feel extremely welcome.
“Our country is on the move. Much has already been achieved and many historic steps have been taken by women in all fields in recent years, with sport driving progress throughout our society.”
“Hosting the WTA Finals is a huge thing for the future of tennis in Saudi Arabia and for the growing game in general, especially among our young girls. And that is absolutely our focus, to inspire future generations of players and “Celebrating Women’s Tennis.”
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