Coco Gauff, the reigning champion, has some strong opinions about the future of the WTA Finals tournament. In a recent interview, she shared her thoughts on the event's location and the impact it has on players and fans alike.
Gauff's victory in the 2024 WTA Finals, where she became the first American champion since Serena Williams, has set the stage for an exciting title defense in Riyadh next month. But here's where it gets controversial: Gauff believes that the constant change of venues for the Finals is not ideal.
"I definitely don't think we should go to different places every year," she stated. With her experience of playing in three different locations for the Finals, Gauff highlights the benefits of stability. She argues that keeping the tournament in one place for at least a few years creates a unique culture and atmosphere, allowing fans to plan their attendance and generating more interest.
The WTA Finals have had a nomadic existence in recent years, moving from Singapore to Guadalajara, Fort Worth, and Cancun, before finally settling in Riyadh for a three-year deal. Gauff suggests that this instability might have affected fan turnout in the past.
"I think it was smart for Riyadh to test the waters with a three-year deal," she added, acknowledging the success of the event from a player's perspective. However, she expressed her desire to return to Riyadh for a longer period, emphasizing the power of sports to unite people and create a lasting impact.
And this is the part most people miss: Gauff's experience in Riyadh last year was a pleasant surprise. She didn't expect such a diverse and enthusiastic crowd, with fans traveling from all over the world to attend the tournament.
"The energy inside the stadium was incredible," she recalled. "It brought people from different nationalities together, and I loved the atmosphere."
So, what's next for the WTA Finals? Will Riyadh continue to host the event beyond 2026? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Gauff wants a stable and exciting finale to the tennis season.
