Iga Swiatek Responds to $2 Billion Saudi Offer to ATP and WTA: ‘Waiting for Official Decision

When asked about the purported $2 billion offer the ATP and WTA have received from Saudi Arabia, World No. 1 Iga Swiatek gave a politically acceptable response, stating that it is up to the two associations to negotiate and that she won’t rush to make any decisions until the official decision arrives.

According to a March 12th Telegraph story, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia made a $2 billion merger bid to the ATP and WTA, which, if approved, would make the Saudis a major player in the tennis world. It was also said in the report that there was a 90-day window within which to accept or reject the offer. The WTA announced on April 4th that they had reached a three-year agreement to bring the WTA Finals to Riyadh, which is another significant step toward the Saudis’ goal of becoming a major player in the tennis world. The agreement is significant for all parties since it allows Saudi Arabia to host one of the greatest events, and the WTA Finals will give a record-breaking $15.25 million in prize money this year, with more increases planned for 2025 and 2026.

Swiatek on the purported Saudi offer to the ATP and WTA

During her Stuttgart pre-tournament press conference, Swiatek was questioned regarding the recent claims.

“To be honest, I always kind of wait for the official decision when it comes to these proposals. There’s not much we, the players, can do about that. Swiatek stated, “I believe the WTA and ATP need to make these decisions to put us in a position where we kind of know what we’re standing on.

“The game is definitely evolving. It is affected by this.  However, I’m hoping that this influence will result in positive changes. WTA has previously informed us, over numerous meetings, that one of the objectives is to implement some improvements in that area. We’ll watch that one through to the end.

“I just hope there will be a pleasant environment wherever the finals are held. I’m hoping the WTA will handle that so we can just enjoy ourselves while playing tennis.”Swiatek declared that she would play in Saudi Arabia if the WTA decided to move the WTA Finals there prior to the WTA agreeing to do so.