Saudi Arabia is set to host its first-ever ATP Masters 1000 tennis tournament from 2028, marking a significant milestone for the country and the sport. This announcement is the result of a partnership between the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and SURJ Sports Investment, a company owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). The new tournament will be the 10th Masters 1000 event, joining existing tournaments in Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo, Madrid, Rome, Toronto/Montreal, Cincinnati, Shanghai, and Paris.
The Saudi Arabian tournament will be played on outdoor hard courts and will feature a 56-player singles main draw, lasting one week. Although it’s not mandatory for players to participate, the event is expected to attract top talent. The exact venue and dates are yet to be confirmed, but it’s likely to take place in February, aligning with existing ATP events in the Middle East.
This development is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to grow its sports industry, aligning with its Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. The country has already made significant investments in tennis, hosting the WTA Finals in Riyadh since 2024 and the Next Gen ATP Finals in Jeddah since 2023. The PIF has also partnered with several existing Masters 1000 events and become the official naming partner of the ATP Rankings.
ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi described the announcement as a “proud moment,” praising Saudi Arabia’s commitment to tennis. Danny Townsend, CEO of SURJ Sports Investment, emphasized that the tournament will inspire the next generation of tennis players and fans in Saudi Arabia. With this new event, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a major hub for tennis, showcasing its capabilities as a global sports destination.
