The 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, have been a mixed bag for tennis fans around the world. While the on-court action has been thrilling, the lack of local attendance has left many questioning the decision to host the prestigious year-end tournament in the Middle Eastern country.

Exposing the Challenges of Hosting a Global Tennis Event in Riyadh

Sparse Crowds and Disappointing Attendance

The WTA Finals in Riyadh have been plagued by a noticeable lack of local support. Despite the King Saud University Indoor Arena's capacity of 5,000 fans, the highly anticipated match between World No. 3 Coco Gauff and World No. 6 Jessica Pegula on Sunday afternoon saw only around 400 people in attendance. This underwhelming turnout has left many tennis enthusiasts frustrated and questioning the decision to host the event in Riyadh.

The dark lighting inside the indoor facilities has made it nearly impossible to gauge the actual size of the crowds during the matches. However, media reports and social media posts have painted a bleak picture, with many describing the scene as "embarrassing" for the sport of tennis. The overwhelming sentiment among fans online has been one of disappointment, with some even going so far as to accuse the WTA of "sportswashing" by partnering with Saudi Arabia.

Missed Opportunities for Growth and Engagement

The sparse crowds at the WTA Finals in Riyadh represent a missed opportunity for the sport to grow and engage with new audiences. Tennis is a global game, and events like the WTA Finals have the potential to introduce the sport to new regions and inspire the next generation of players and fans. However, the lack of local support in Riyadh has dampened the excitement and energy that typically surrounds the year-end tournament.

Despite the challenges, the few fans who did make the trip to Riyadh were treated to some excellent tennis. Coco Gauff, in particular, made a point to acknowledge her supporters in the stands, even going so far as to gift a signed tennis shoe to one lucky fan. This personal connection between players and fans is a crucial aspect of growing the sport, and the WTA should be commended for their efforts to engage with the local community.

The Road Ahead: Addressing the Challenges and Embracing the Opportunity

As the WTA Finals continue in Riyadh, the organization and the players must work together to address the challenges and embrace the opportunity to grow the sport in the region. While the 2025 and 2026 editions of the tournament are already scheduled to take place in Riyadh, there is still time to make improvements and ensure a more engaging and well-attended event.

One potential solution could be to focus on grassroots initiatives and community outreach programs to generate more local interest and excitement around the tournament. The WTA could also explore ways to make the event more accessible and appealing to the Riyadh community, such as offering discounted tickets or organizing fan-friendly activities outside of the matches.

Ultimately, the success of the WTA Finals in Riyadh will depend on the WTA's ability to adapt and respond to the unique challenges of the region. By embracing the opportunity to grow the sport and engage with new audiences, the WTA can turn this year's underwhelming event into a springboard for future success and the continued global expansion of women's tennis.