Tennis Legend McEnroe Voices Concerns Over Saudi Arabia’s Potential Tournament Acquisitions

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Money talks in tennis as Saudi Arabia eyes the purchase of elite tournaments.

Tennis legend John McEnroe voiced his reservations about the potential acquisition of high-profile tennis tournaments, the Miami Open and Madrid Open, by Saudi Arabia, expressing concerns about the influence of money in shaping the future of the sport. In a conference call ahead of the Australian Open, McEnroe acknowledged that while it wouldn’t shock him, he disagreed with the idea.

The reports suggest that Saudi Arabia is in preliminary talks to buy both tournaments, classified as elite-level 1000 tournaments by the ATP and WTA, from IMG. The Athletic reported that similar tournaments have historically sold for several hundred million dollars.

McEnroe raised doubts about Saudi Arabia potentially launching an alternative golf-style tour down the line, stating, “Personally, I disagree with it completely, with the golf and the tennis.” He questioned the idea of hosting prestigious events like the WTA Finals in a country with concerns about its treatment of women.

John McEnroe has seen the reports that Saudi Arabia might expand its influence in the tennis world by buying a couple of high-profile tournaments — the Miami Open and …https://t.co/FmqMR1HMfh pic.twitter.com/sobY9KmMNF

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Despite his reservations, McEnroe also highlighted the paradox where sports figures are expected to set moral standards, but governments and businesses routinely engage with Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that the issue extends beyond tennis and golf, calling it a “total joke.”

The tennis icon expressed skepticism, stating, “I’d be surprised if the Saudis don’t buy those tournaments actually.”

Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in tennis includes hosting the ATP’s Next Gen Finals from 2023-27 and expressing interest in hosting the WTA Tour Finals. The kingdom also organized exhibitions featuring top players like Novak Djokovic.

ATP Tour chair Andrea Gaudenzi confirmed positive talks with Saudi Arabia, stating, “It’s our duty to talk to everyone basically, and that’s what we’re doing.”

While McEnroe and Mary Joe Fernandez share concerns, they noted that tennis pioneer Billie Jean King is open to Saudi involvement, hoping to inspire young girls and women in the Middle East through tennis.