WTA Finals: “If I feel uncomfortable, I won’t return”: Coco Gauff issues warning to Saudi Arabia

The 2024 WTA Finals continue to make headlines. Scheduled from November 2 to 9, this prestigious tournament features the eight best players in women’s tennis and will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Known for its intolerance towards LGBTQ rights and gender equality, the decision to host the tournament in the country has faced significant criticism.

During a press conference, American star Coco Gauff, currently ranked third in the world, expressed her reservations about this decision, despite believing that sport can be a catalyst for change. “I am obviously very aware of the situation in Saudi Arabia,” she acknowledged. “But I believe that sport can open doors for people. The WTA has committed to supporting the Future Stars program in Saudi Arabia for the next three years and aims to involve more Saudi women in sports. I hope this will allow people to see us and understand what we stand for, fostering equality in the process.”

Despite her hopes for the future of Saudi women, the 20-year-old did not shy away from voicing her concerns, warning the Saudi kingdom if there were no visible changes. “I would be lying if I said I had no reservations. One of the things I mentioned is that if we come here, we can’t just come, play our tournament, and leave. We need to have a real program, a genuine plan in place. If I feel uncomfortable or feel like nothing is changing, then maybe I wouldn’t come back,” she stated.

ALSO READ: Tennis. Number 1 ranking, prize money, TV channel… Everything you need to know about the WTA Masters in Saudi Arabia.

Placed in the group with Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff will kick off her tournament on Sunday, November 3, against fellow American Jessica Pegula.