New Masters 1000 Tournament in Saudi Arabia: A New Chapter for Tennis
The ATP announced this Thursday the addition of a new Masters 1000 category event in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in the world tennis calendar. In collaboration with SURJ Sports Investments, part of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, the tournament is scheduled to debut on the professional circuit starting in 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 world ranking partner for both the ATP and WTA and has alliances with renowned events such as Indian Wells and Madrid. In addition, PIF sponsors the WTA’s new maternity leave program.The announcement comes in a context of growing interest and controversy surrounding Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the world of sports. While the exact date and host city of the tournament have not been announced, it is known that it will be the tenth ATP Masters tournament, the highest level of tennis events after the Grand Slam tournaments, and the first to be launched since this category was introduced in 1990. ATP players with a ranking that allows them direct entry must participate in eight of the nine Masters 1000 tournaments, with exceptions for injury. Monte Carlo, which is played in April, is the only Masters event that is not mandatory. The addition of another mandatory tournament on the men’s circuit could generate various reactions among the players.“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 at all levels. The 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
