RIYADH: As the Kingdom’s capital gears up for the highly anticipated WTA Finals this November, the tournament’s director and former world No. 1 Garbine Muguruza believes the event will be “gigantic” for tennis in the country and region.
In an interview with Arab News recently, she said the contest, which will feature some of the world’s top female tennis players, will showcase the power of sport to inspire and unite people.
“I’m very excited that we can bring this gigantic tournament to Saudi Arabia,” she said, noting the significance of introducing this premier event in a region that is still becoming acquainted with the sport at the highest level.
The WTA Finals is regarded as one of the crown jewels of women’s tennis.
Muguruza, who has experience working in the Middle East, said: “This is going to make such an impact for the kids, for the next generation.”
She praised the Saudi Tennis Federation and the broader sports community for the work they are doing. “They’re bringing exhibitions, next-gen (tournaments), and now the finals,” said Muguruza.
She said the focus on community engagement — through several clinics and coaching sessions — was vital for fostering local talent. The ultimate aim is to have 1 million tennis players in the country.
“Every time I do it, there’s more people,” she said.
“They’re doing a great job letting them dream and giving them the options to do it,” she said, recalling her own journey to the top of the sport.
“Why not dream, right? Like I dreamt when I was little to one day be the world No. 1, you know?”
Muguruza’s dual perspective as both a former elite player and a tournament director enriches her approach. “I can tell what the players could need, what to expect. How can we get the crowd excited,” she said.
As she reflected on the evolution of tennis in the Kingdom, Muguruza acknowledged the strides being made, particularly among young female players.
Witnessing Saudi Arabia’s Haniya Minhas compete at Wimbledon this year in the under-14 category was a poignant moment for her.
“I felt great because I’m like, ‘wow, you see, finally we have a representation,’” she said.
“We see every country has their timing, has their step,” Muguruza added.
