Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion John McEnroe has expressed his opposition to tennis pursuing investment from Saudi Arabia. In an interview with ESPN on June 28, 2023, McEnroe stated that he personally would not encourage it and made a reference to recent developments in golf.
Referring to the PGA Tour’s agreement with the Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, which has faced criticism for “sportswashing,” McEnroe voiced concerns about the potential use of Saudi investment in tennis for image improvement purposes.
McEnroe questioned why tennis would consider engaging with Saudi Arabia after witnessing the controversies in golf, calling it a “debacle.”
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has also expressed reservations about Saudi investment, announcing that it will not host tournaments in the country until there is improvement in human rights conditions.
While the ATP Tour has yet to decide on Saudi investment, Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi has indicated openness to discussions with the country.
The stance taken by McEnroe and the concerns raised suggest that the ATP Tour may encounter opposition from players and fans if it proceeds with accepting investment from Saudi Arabia.
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