The Women's Tennis Association has officially parted ways with Saudi Arabia as host of its season-ending Finals, terminating the final year of a three-year agreement with the Saudi Tennis Federation by mutual consent. The prestigious event, won in 2025 by Elena Rybakina over Aryna Sabalenka, will now be held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California from November 8-15.
The WTA originally signed its deal with the STF in April 2024, a landmark arrangement that brought record prize money to the tournament. Two editions were staged in Riyadh before the partnership was cut short. According to BBC Sport, escalating tensions between Iran and the United States complicated the logistics of staging the event in the Middle East this year, contributing to the early exit from the agreement.
WTA chair Valerie Camillo was enthusiastic about the switch, describing the Indian Wells venue as offering "world-class facilities" and a "passionate fan base" capable of delivering a truly premier championship experience. The California desert venue already has deep ties to elite women's tennis, hosting the BNP Paribas Open each March.
The original decision to take the Finals to Saudi Arabia in 2024 drew considerable criticism, with many accusing the Gulf nation of using major sporting events to distract from human rights concerns, particularly around restrictions on women. WTA CEO Steve Simon at the time argued that engaging with the region could support meaningful change and create more opportunities for women in tennis globally.
With the sport's top eight singles players and doubles teams set to compete in November, the move back to familiar American soil feels significant. TennisDraw users will want to update their bracket picks now that the Finals venue is confirmed.
