Nadal: "Saudi Arabia doesn't need me to clean its image"

Alongside the announcement of his withdrawal from the ATP 250 in Doha, Rafael Nadal was also asked about his controversial new role as ambassador of the Saudi Tennis Federation. The Spaniard defended himself against being part of "sport washing" and explained that his contract contained exit clauses, just in case.

Nadal: "I do not think Saudi Arabia needs me to clean its image. It's a country that has opened up to the world and has great potential.

When I signed the contract, I knew what was going to happen and that there could be some controversy. What I'm going to do in Saudi Arabia aligns with what I've done all my life.

I firmly believe that education and sports can change lives and turn complicated situations into opportunities.

I'm not going to work in a way that doesn't suit me."