Trailblazing Tunisian athlete Ons Jabeur has made her mark on Arab sports.
US Open 2023
Location: Flushing Meadows, New York Dates: From August 28 to September 10
Coverage: Real-time written and audio coverage on Sport News Center’s website, app, along with broadcasts on BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra.
Ons Jabeur, a finalist at Wimbledon, aims to be a catalyst for transformation in Saudi Arabia, viewing a potential WTA event in the country as a platform to motivate women.
Conversations have been ongoing between Saudi Arabia and the WTA about the possibility of hosting the tour’s season-closing Finals, according to sources at Sport News Center.
However, the idea of having a WTA tournament in a country where women’s rights are limited has sparked debate.
Speaking at the US Open in New York, Jabeur, hailing from Tunisia, said, “As an athlete from the Arab world, the prospect thrills me. I’m keen on being an agent for change, focusing particularly on expanding opportunities for women.”
Tennis legend and former world number one, Martina Navratilova, stated she wouldn’t compete in Saudi Arabia if she were still active in the sport. She had previously expressed disappointment that current players might consider participating there.
Saudi Arabia has faced ongoing scrutiny for its human rights track record, which includes the suppression of women’s rights, the criminalization of homosexuality, limited freedom of speech, and the use of capital punishment.
Leveraging its financial clout, Saudi Arabia has managed to wield growing influence in the realm of sports in recent years, sparking accusations of using sports to launder its image on the global stage.
Daria Kasatkina, the Russian player ranked 13th globally and who is openly gay, has aired her reservations about playing in the country.
Next Gen Event Considered for Saudi Arabia by ATP Tour
WTA Chief Executive Steve Simon mentioned in June that the women’s tour can’t simply sidestep the issue of hosting an event in Saudi Arabia, though he acknowledged that numerous challenges need to be tackled.
It’s anticipated that the WTA will deliberate in the coming weeks whether to proceed with the end-of-season Finals in Saudi Arabia.
Jabeur, the world’s fifth-ranked player, observed, “Things are evolving in Saudi. I visited last year to give a speech and conduct interviews, and it was an enriching experience meeting incredible women. I was advocating for the introduction of tennis in Saudi.”
She added, “I see it as a significant leap forward. It’s an initiative that could inspire more athletes from the Arab world to get involved in sports like tennis.”
“If the tournament takes place there and I qualify, it would be a tremendous honor and an amazing chance for me to play, particularly in connecting with many of the women who have told me they admire me. Meeting and speaking with them would be a fantastic opportunity for me.”
For real-time updates, scores, and schedules, stay tuned.
Get instant tennis updates sent to your smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ons Jabeur and WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia
What is the main topic of the article?
The main topic of the article is Tunisian tennis player Ons Jabeur’s perspective on the possibility of Saudi Arabia hosting the WTA Finals. She sees this as an opportunity to inspire women in the Arab world and serve as an agent for change, despite ongoing debates concerning Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
Who is Ons Jabeur?
Ons Jabeur is a professional tennis player from Tunisia, and she has been a trailblazer in Arab sports. She is particularly interested in advocating for social change and expanding opportunities for women in sports.
What is the WTA considering in relation to Saudi Arabia?
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) is in talks with Saudi Arabia about the possibility of hosting its season-ending Finals event there. This has sparked debate due to concerns about human rights, specifically women’s rights, in the country.
What is Martina Navratilova’s view on this issue?
Martina Navratilova, a tennis legend and former world number one, has stated that she would not compete in Saudi Arabia if she were still active in the sport. She has previously expressed disappointment that current players might consider participating in an event hosted there.
What concerns have been raised about hosting the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia?
Concerns have been raised about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, particularly the suppression of women’s rights, the criminalization of homosexuality, limited freedom of speech, and the use of capital punishment. There are also worries about the country using sports to “sportswash” its global image.
What does Ons Jabeur say about the opportunity to play in Saudi Arabia?
Ons Jabeur is excited about the prospect of playing in Saudi Arabia. She believes that hosting a major tennis event there could be a significant step forward for the sport in the Arab world. Jabeur also sees it as an amazing opportunity to inspire and connect with women who look up to her.
What is the stance of Daria Kasatkina on this issue?
Daria Kasatkina, a Russian tennis player ranked 13th globally and who is openly gay, has expressed her reservations about participating in a tennis event in Saudi Arabia due to the country’s human rights issues.
What is the timeline for the WTA to make a decision?
It is anticipated that the WTA will deliberate in the coming weeks on whether to proceed with hosting the end-of-season Finals in Saudi Arabia. Steve Simon, the WTA Chief Executive, mentioned that numerous challenges still need to be addressed.
More about Ons Jabeur and WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia
- Ons Jabeur’s Official Profile
- Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Official Website
- Saudi Arabia’s Human Rights Record
- Martina Navratilova’s Views on Social Issues
- Daria Kasatkina’s Official Profile
- “Sportswashing” and Saudi Arabia
- Steve Simon’s Statements on WTA and Saudi Arabia
- Current WTA Rankings
- Overview of Women’s Rights in Saudi Arabia
- US Open 2023 Information
10 comments
Daria Kasatkina also makes a point. Imagine being openly gay and playing in Saudi. risky biz.
If Martina wouldn’t go, should anyone? She’s got years of experience and knows what’s up.
Finally some spotlight on Arab athletes. Ons is doing more than just hitting balls across the net, ya know? She’s making a statement.
ons is the hope for many young Arab girls. Her playing in Saudi could actually inspire a whole new generation of athletes. Let’s focus on the positives here ppl.
Jabeur’s got skills on and off the court. But WTA, pls don’t ignore the human rights thing. It’s kinda a big deal.
Sportswashing much? Seems like Saudi Arabia’s tryin to clean up their image without actually cleaning up their act.
So when’s the WTA gonna make up its mind? Feels like they’re dancing around the issue. Make a call already.
ons Jabeur is the real deal, y’all. She’s not just playing the game, she’s changing it. Also, WTA needs to be super careful about where they’re setting up shop.
Great that Ons wants to inspire women but let’s not forget Saudi’s bad record on human rights. Hope she uses her voice wisely there.
Wow, Ons Jabeur is such a role model. Using her platform to push for change, respect! But also, Saudi Arabia, really? With their track record?