In a move that has stunned the tennis world and sent shockwaves through the ATP Tour, Saudi Arabia has officially secured its place in tennis history by hosting a brand-new Masters 1000 tournament. The announcement, confirmed today by the ATP, marks a monumental shift in the global tennis landscape and showcases Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in international sports.

Billionaire Backing Changes the Game

At the heart of this dramatic development is billionaire Turki Alalshikh, a key figure in Saudi Arabia’s cultural and entertainment revolution. Alalshikh, who heads the General Entertainment Authority, personally confirmed his backing for the new event and unveiled a jaw-dropping prize pool that is set to become the largest in the history of any Masters 1000 tournament.

While the exact figure remains confidential until the official launch event next month, early sources have revealed that the prize pool could exceed $20 million, dwarfing previous records and potentially rivaling even the Grand Slam tournaments in terms of financial incentive.

Players React with Enthusiasm—and Caution

The response from top players has been mixed, though generally positive. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Carlos Alcaraz have all expressed interest in competing in the event, especially given the unprecedented prize money.

“This could be a game-changer for the sport,” said Djokovic during a press conference. “Anything that brings more attention, more investment, and more opportunity to tennis is a welcome development, as long as the sport’s values are respected.”

Others, however, have raised concerns about the implications of such massive investments in countries with controversial human rights records. “We have to ensure we’re not just chasing dollars,” one top-20 player, speaking anonymously, said. “Tennis has a global audience, and we should be mindful of where and how we grow.”

The Saudi Vision for Global Sporting Dominance

This bold power play is the latest in a series of high-profile sporting initiatives backed by Saudi Arabia, which has invested billions in football, boxing, Formula 1, and now, elite tennis. The kingdom’s ambitions are part of its Vision 2030 plan—a strategy to diversify its economy and improve its international image.

Hosting a Masters 1000 is a significant feather in its cap, positioning Saudi Arabia not just as a financial backer but a central player in shaping the future of professional tennis.

ATP Defends the Move

ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi stood firmly behind the decision, citing “unprecedented infrastructure investment” and “serious commitment to tennis development” from the Saudi organizers.

“This is about growing the sport,” Gaudenzi stated. “Saudi Arabia is offering world-class facilities, a global platform, and now the most competitive prize structure we’ve ever seen at this level. We believe it will inspire other tournaments to innovate and improve.”

When and Where?

The Saudi Masters 1000 is expected to debut in late 2025, with the city of Riyadh being the likely host. The tournament will slot into the calendar between the US Open and the Shanghai Masters, creating a new and exciting Middle Eastern leg in the ATP season.

The newly constructed tennis complex in Riyadh is reportedly outfitted with cutting-edge technology, luxury player amenities, and a center court designed to rival the likes of Arthur Ashe Stadium or Centre Court at Wimbledon.

A Bold New Era for Tennis?

While opinions remain divided, there’s no doubt that the ATP’s bold partnership with Saudi Arabia has already made headlines—and history. Whether this marks a golden age for tennis or a controversial crossroads remains to be seen.

But one thing is certain: with money, power, and prestige on the line, the race to Riyadh is officially on.