MIAMI — Women’s tennis has found a promising advocate in American tennis star Coco Gauff, who has expressed her support for the sport’s expansion into Saudi Arabia.

The 19-year-old, fresh off her triumph at the US Open, is emerging as an inspiration for young athletes, both on and off the court. While some players have been hesitant about the WTA Finals taking place in Riyadh, Gauff’s perspective is refreshingly different.

Gauff, currently ranked No. 3 in the world, is on a mission to defend her Flushing Meadows title, aiming to be the first to do so since Serena Williams in 2014.

After a stunning comeback victory against Elina Svitolina, Gauff shared her positive views on Saudi Arabia hosting the WTA Finals. She emphasized that the event represents a valuable opportunity for aspiring athletes in the region to experience world-class tennis up close.

“I feel like to enact a dream or for a kid to see a dream, they have to see it in person,” Gauff said. “Hoping that there is a player or a kid from Saudi who can say, ‘This WTA Finals changed my outlook or made me realize I had a dream in this sport.’ That’s what tennis is all about—bringing our community to new parts of the world.”

Saudi Arabia has awaited the chance to host a major tennis event, and with the involvement of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the WTA Finals in Riyadh marks a significant milestone.

Gauff, alongside other WTA stars, including tennis legend Billie Jean King, has expressed excitement about competing on a grand stage in Saudi Arabia. — Agencies