Home / Sports / WTA Finals May Leave Saudi Arabia: Charlotte Eyed
WTA Finals May Leave Saudi Arabia: Charlotte Eyed
1 Apr
Summary
- WTA Finals contract with Saudi Arabia is not being renewed.
- Charlotte is being considered as a potential host city for 2027.
- Players like Keys and Pegula have shared their thoughts on a potential move.
The WTA Finals, with a history dating back to 1972, may be relocating from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, after its current three-year contract concludes. Reports indicate the WTA is not renewing its agreement with the Saudi Tennis Federation and is considering Charlotte as a potential host city for the 2027 event. Jessica Pegula confirmed she had some information about the potential change, noting that a final decision on the location had not yet been made.
Madison Keys views Charlotte as a promising venue, believing the city's established tennis fanbase would enthusiastically support the WTA Finals. While both players participated in the 2025 WTA Finals in Riyadh, neither secured the title. The potential shift comes as a surprise, given the positive reception and success of the tournament in Saudi Arabia, with WTA CEO Portia Archer having previously expressed interest in extending their stay beyond the initial contract.
Players like Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff had previously praised the tournament's organization and impact in Saudi Arabia. Elena Rybakina won the singles title in 2025, earning a significant portion of the record $15.5 million prize pool. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is set to host the ATP Masters 1000 Saudi Masters in 2028, marking a significant expansion for the ATP Tour.
