The ATP Tour has unveiled a significant multi-year strategic collaboration with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, marking a notable increase in the Gulf country’s influence on the global sports scene.
This landmark partnership was disclosed by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), the premier governing entity for men’s tennis that coordinates the global ATP Tour, which features the pinnacle of men’s professional tennis competitions.
Under this new alliance, the PIF will become the official title sponsor for the men’s world tennis rankings and will engage in joint efforts with ATP in hosting prestigious tennis tournaments at various locations, including Indian Wells, the ATP Finals in Turin, and the Next Gen ATP Finals, set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Massimo Calvelli, CEO of the ATP, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating, “This strategic alliance with PIF represents a pivotal milestone for the sport of tennis. It embodies our mutual dedication to advancing the future of tennis. With PIF’s focus on nurturing the next generation, driving innovation, and opening new opportunities for everyone, we are on the brink of an exciting era of transformation for tennis.”
In a groundbreaking move for tennis, Saudi Arabia is scheduled to host an elite tennis exhibition event in October, featuring tennis legends such as Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and three other Grand Slam champions.
Mohamed al-Sayyad, PIF’s head of corporate brand, expressed that the partnership with ATP is poised to be a key driver in expanding the global tennis landscape. “Our strategic alliance is in line with our overarching goals to elevate the quality of life and catalyze the transformation of sports both within Saudi Arabia and internationally,” he mentioned.
This collaboration not only underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in international sports but also aligns with the country’s broader objectives to enrich life quality and spearhead transformative initiatives in the sporting domain.
