Saudi Arabia Secures ATP Masters 1000 Tennis Tournament for 2028
Saudi Arabia has been awarded the hosting rights for an ATP Masters 1000 tennis tournament, scheduled to debut in 2028. This announcement marks a significant moment in the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to enhance its presence in global sports.
Key Details About the Tournament
The upcoming ATP Masters 1000 tournament will feature a 56-player draw and will span one week. This event is not mandatory for players. While the exact dates and venue are still pending, February is a likely timeframe, coinciding with smaller tournaments in Doha, Qatar, and Dubai, UAE.
Statements from Tennis Officials
- Andrea Gaudenzi, ATP Tour Chairman, expressed his belief in the potential of Saudi Arabia to elevate the sport by hosting this tournament.
- Daniel Townsend, chief executive of SURJ, emphasized a commitment to creating a world-class tennis experience in the kingdom while meeting infrastructure requirements.
Gaudenzi noted that Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a genuine commitment to tennis at both professional and grassroots levels. He added that the upcoming tournament illustrates the kingdom’s ambition to own and showcase significant tennis events.
Evolution of Saudi Arabia’s Tennis Plans
Initially, Saudi Arabia sought to launch a joint ATP and WTA 1000 tournament at the start of the tennis season. However, this plan was scaled down to a men’s event due to negotiations with other tour organizers and player preferences. The season-ending WTA Tour Finals will remain in Riyadh until at least 2027, showcasing the country’s investment in tennis.
Impact on the Tennis Calendar
The integration of this new tournament into the existing tennis calendar poses challenges. February currently features ten tournaments across four continents. Gaudenzi indicated potential for two tournament runs: one in the Middle East and another in South America. However, he acknowledged that executing this plan will be a complex undertaking.
Background and Future Prospects
This move comes amidst Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and elevate its global sporting presence. The kingdom has invested heavily in sports, viewing them as a catalyst for changing its international image.
As this plan unfolds, discussions regarding the ATP schedule will continue, with the goal of creating a balanced and sustainable global tennis calendar. The introduction of the Saudi Arabia ATP Masters 1000 tournament will undoubtedly influence the dynamics of professional tennis in the years to come.
