Tennis fans have been left stunned as several of the sport’s biggest names — including defending champion Coco Gauff, world No. 1 Iga Świątek, Aryna Sabalenka, Jessica Pegula, and Amanda Anisimova — have reportedly threatened to boycott the 2025 WTA Finals in Riyadh. The players have expressed deep frustration over what they describe as the WTA’s continued failure to properly promote one of the sport’s most prestigious events, despite it being just days away.
Sources close to the players reveal that the group is disappointed with the lack of buildup and visibility surrounding the season-ending tournament. Complaints include the absence of a live draw ceremony, no official photoshoot, and the cancellation of the traditional players’ gala, all of which are seen as essential parts of the WTA Finals’ legacy.
Gauff, who lifted the trophy last year in Riyadh, is said to be particularly frustrated, emphasizing that the event should reflect the achievements and stature of the players who worked all year to qualify. Świątek and Sabalenka reportedly share the same sentiment, feeling that the WTA has failed to give women’s tennis the platform it deserves on the global stage.
The boycott threat comes at a sensitive time for the WTA, which signed a multi-year agreement with Saudi Arabia to host the Finals through 2027. While the move was initially aimed at boosting investment and global exposure, it has instead sparked growing criticism over organizational shortcomings and limited fan engagement.
Fans have also voiced anger online, calling the situation “embarrassing” and a “missed opportunity” when compared to the ATP Finals’ grand presentation in Turin.
Unless significant last-minute changes are made, the 2025 WTA Finals risk becoming overshadowed by off-court controversy rather than the on-court excellence that defines the women’s game.
