The decision to hold the 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, sparked significant controversy and debate within the tennis community and beyond. The primary point of contention revolves around Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, particularly its treatment of women.
Saudi Arabia has faced international criticism for its human rights practices, including the suppression of dissent, the use of the death penalty, and the lack of gender equality. Women in Saudi Arabia have historically faced severe restrictions on their rights and freedoms, although there have been some recent reforms aimed at improving their status.
Prominent tennis figures, including Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert, voiced their opposition to the decision, arguing that holding the WTA Finals in Riyadh sends the wrong message and undermines the values of equality and human rights that tennis stands for. They emphasized that values should take precedence over financial incentives.
On the other hand, some argue that hosting the WTA Finals in Riyadh could serve as a platform for promoting positive change in the country. By showcasing top female athletes and providing significant prize money, the event could help challenge stereotypes and encourage further reforms in women’s rights.
The controversy also affected the players themselves, with some expressing discomfort about participating in the event. Emma Navarro, for instance, declined the opportunity to be an alternate, citing personal reasons but also the broader context of the event’s location.
The decision to hold the 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh highlights the complex interplay between sports, politics, and human rights. While the event offers substantial financial rewards and the potential for positive engagement, it also raises important questions about the ethical implications of hosting major sporting events in countries with questionable human rights records.
Aryna Sabalenka in 2024
WWWWWLWWWW Currently ranked no.1, the Belarussian played her last match on the 13th of October when she overcame world no.7 Qinwen Zheng 6-3 5-7 6-3 in the final in Wuhan to win her 17th career title.
Currently, during this season Sabalenka achieved a 54-12 record. The Belarussian clinched 4 titles in 2024 at the Australian Open, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Wuhan. Aryna was the runner-up in Brisbane, Madrid and Rome.
Iga Swiatek in 2024
LWWWWLWWWW Currently ranked no.2, Swiatek played her last match on the 4th of September when she was defeated by world no.6 Jessica Pegula 6-2 6-4 in the quarter of the U.S. Open (draw).
This season the Pole achieved a 59-8 win-loss record. Iga conquered 6 titles in 2024 in Australia, Doha, Indian Wells, Madrid, Rome and French Open.
Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek faced off 12 times. Their head to head is 8-4 for Swiatek.
