New Masters 1000 Tournament in Saudi Arabia
The ATP has announced the launch of a new Masters 1000 level event in Saudi Arabia. This tournament, in collaboration with SURJ Sports Investments, part of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF), could debut on the tennis calendar as early as 2028. Saudi Arabia already hosts the year-end WTA Finals and the Next Gen ATP Finals. This new Masters tournament represents PIF’s most recent foray into tennis. The fund is the official global ranking partner for both the ATP and WTA and has partnerships with several major events, including Indian Wells and Madrid. The PIF also sponsors the WTA’s new maternity leave program. The Middle Eastern country has faced widespread criticism for human rights violations. Critics argue that Saudi Arabia has engaged in “sportswashing,” using the country’s wealth to invest in global sports initiatives and improve its reputation worldwide.The specific timing of the event in Saudi Arabia, as well as the host city and venue, have not yet been announced. It will be the tenth ATP Masters tournament, the highest level of tennis events outside of the majors, and the first to be launched since the category was introduced in 1990. ATP players with a ranking that allows them direct entry must currently participate in eight of the nine Masters 1000 level tournaments, with exceptions for injury. Monte Carlo, which is played in April, is the only Masters event that is not mandatory. Many players have expressed concerns about the duration and intensity of the season, as well as the extended format of several 1000-level events. The addition of another mandatory tournament on the men’s circuit could be met with mixed reactions.“This is the result of a journey that has taken years of preparation. Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a genuine commitment to tennis, not only at a professional level, but also in the growth of the sport in general at all levels. PIF’s ambition for the sport is clear, and we believe that both fans and players will be surprised by what is to come.”
Andrea Gaudenzi, ATP Chairman
