The PIF, a New Key Player in the ATP and WTA Tours
If you follow the tennis season closely, you have likely seen the PIF logo on the courts of various tournaments at least once.
Behind this mysterious acronym lies the Saudi Public Investment Fund, created in 1971, whose role is to invest on behalf of Saudi Arabia in various projects.
A 'Naming' for the ATP and WTA Rankings
But it has been just over ten years since it was authorized to expand its portfolio. Without hesitation, the PIF jumped on the ATP and WTA, to carve out a place in the world of tennis.
The Saudi offensive materialized in 2024: the PIF became a partner of the ATP and WTA rankings, now renamed 'PIF ATP Rankings' and 'PIF WTA Rankings'. This contract also includes the fund's presence as a sponsor at several major tournaments: Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, and Beijing.
A Tenth Masters 1000 Officialized
Negotiations with the ATP did not stop there: the men's tour governing body confirmed the organization of a Masters 1000 in Saudi Arabia starting in 2028.
"Saudi Arabia has demonstrated its commitment to the world of tennis, not only professionally, but in terms of development at all levels," said Andrea Gaudenzi, Chairman of the ATP, at the time of the officialization of this tenth Masters 1000.
The Full Investigation Available This Weekend
The full investigation "Tennis, Saudi Arabia's New Playground" will be available on TennisTemple the weekend of November 29-30.
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