Saudi Arabia Set to Host New ATP Masters 1000 Tournament Starting in 2028

October 23, 2025

saudi Arabia Set to Host New ATP Masters 1000 Tournament, Calendar Shakeup Looms

The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) is on the verge of confirming Saudi Arabia as the host of a new Masters 1000 tournament. This move, discussed for over eighteen months, marks a notable expansion of the elite tournament series and is anticipated to reshape the professional tennis calendar.

The Road to Saudi Arabia

Bidding processes included submissions from several locations, including Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Australia. Industry insiders suggest the decision to award the event to Saudi Arabia was largely predetermined, with the outcome widely anticipated within the sport. The addition of a tenth Masters 1000 event had long been considered, but previously faced restrictions regarding its placement in the annual schedule.

Scheduling Conflicts and Potential Disruptions

Previously, any new Masters 1000 event had to be held either in the first week of the year or on grass courts prior to Wimbledon. However, recent rule changes have removed these limitations, granting greater versatility in scheduling. Currently,the ATP is leaning towards a February date,coinciding with existing tournaments in Doha and Dubai,though a formal proclamation is being withheld due to concerns about potential backlash.

A February tournament in Saudi Arabia could prove contentious. Placing the event in the first week of the year could undermine Tennis Australia’s events,perhaps leading to fewer top players competing in the lead-up to the Australian Open. Alternatively,a February schedule could draw players away from established clay-court tournaments in Rio de Janeiro and buenos Aires,as well as European indoor events like Rotterdam.

Proposed Solutions and Prize Money Considerations

one potential solution being explored is a bifurcated February schedule, creating two distinct tournament streams – one in the Middle East and another in South America. This could allow for minimal disruption to existing events, with European indoor tournaments potentially shifted to later in the year. As of November 2024, the ATP’s minimum prize money for Masters 1000 events stood at €6,128,940 (approximately £5,328,338), as showcased at the Paris Masters.

Tournaments are permitted to exceed this minimum, provided any additional funds are distributed equitably throughout the draw. The Indian Wells Masters,such as,added $500,000 (£374,650) to its prize pool this year,but larger increases beyond the minimum are uncommon.

Tournament	Location	approximate Prize Money (EUR)
Paris Masters (2024)	Paris, France	€6,128,940
Indian Wells Masters (2024)	California, USA	€6,628,940
Proposed Saudi Masters 1000	Saudi Arabia	(Minimum €6,128,940, potentially higher)

Did you know? The ATP Masters 1000 events are considered the most prestigious tournaments on the ATP Tour after the four Grand Slam events.

Pro Tip: Keeping track of the ATP calendar is crucial for tennis fans. Utilize the official ATP Tour website for the most up-to-date schedule and results.

The Growing Trend of Saudi Investment in Sports

Saudi Arabia has dramatically increased its investment in international sports in recent years,seeking to diversify its economy and enhance its global image. This has included significant partnerships in football, Formula 1, and now, potentially, tennis. This increased investment reflects a strategic approach to sports as a tool for national branding and economic growth. This trend is predicted to continue as Saudi Arabia expands its portfolio of sporting ventures. The influx of capital is also raising questions regarding the ethical implications of ‘sportswashing’ and the influence of sovereign wealth funds in global sports governance.

Further insight into the growing trend of investment into sports can be found at SportBusiness Group.

Frequently Asked questions about the Saudi Masters 1000

• What is a Masters 1000 tournament? These are among the most significant tournaments on the ATP Tour,ranking just below the Grand Slams in prestige and prize money.
• why is the Saudi tournament causing controversy? Concerns revolve around potential conflicts with existing tournaments and accusations of ‘sportswashing’.
• When is the proposed tournament date? The ATP is considering a February date, but has yet to make a final decision.
• How much prize money will the tournament offer? The prize money will meet the ATP minimum, and potentially exceed it.
• what impact will this have on the Australian Open? A February tournament in Saudi Arabia could draw players away from preparatory events in Australia.

What are your thoughts on Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in tennis? Do you think a new Masters 1000 event will benefit the sport,or create unnecessary complications?

How might the introduction of a new Masters 1000 tournament in Saudi Arabia affect player scheduling and potential for fatigue throughout the ATP season?

The Landmark Deal: Expanding the ATP Tour

In a important move for professional tennis, Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the host of a new ATP Masters 1000 tournament, commencing in 2028. This addition marks the first new Masters 1000 event since 2009 (shanghai),dramatically reshaping the landscape of elite men’s tennis. The agreement, finalized in late 2023, signifies a long-term partnership between the ATP Tour and the Saudi Tennis Federation, backed by the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). This represents a substantial investment in global sports by Saudi Arabia, aligning with its Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and enhance its international profile.

Tournament Details & Location

While the specific city hosting the tournament remains unconfirmed as of October 2025, Riyadh is widely considered the frontrunner. The event is expected to be held annually, likely in the fall, filling a gap in the current ATP calendar.

Here’s what we know so far:

* Tournament Level: ATP Masters 1000 – placing it among the most prestigious events on the tour, just below the Grand Slams.

* Timing: Expected to be held in the fall, potentially September or october.

* Surface: Hard court is the anticipated playing surface, consistent with many other Masters 1000 events.

* Prize Money: Anticipated to be comparable to existing Masters 1000 tournaments, with a substantial prize pool to attract top players. Current Masters 1000 prize money ranges from $3.6 million to over $9 million.

* Duration: A standard nine-day tournament format, featuring 96 players in the main draw.

Impact on the ATP Tour & Player landscape

The addition of a Masters 1000 event in Saudi Arabia will have a ripple effect across the ATP Tour.

* Increased Competition: More opportunities for players to earn ranking points and compete at the highest level.

* Calendar Adjustments: Potential shifts in the scheduling of other tournaments to accommodate the new event. This could impact existing tournaments in the Middle East and Asia.

* Player participation: The substantial prize money and prestige of a Masters 1000 event are expected to draw a strong field of players, including top-ranked stars like Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, and Jannik Sinner.

* Growth of Tennis in the Region: The tournament is poised to considerably boost the popularity of tennis in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, inspiring a new generation of players.

* Revenue Generation: Increased sponsorship opportunities and broadcasting rights revenue for the ATP Tour.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Sports Portfolio

This ATP Masters 1000 tournament is just the latest in a series of significant sports investments by Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom has recently made headlines with:

* LIV Golf: A controversial but highly publicized partnership with LIV Golf,attracting several high-profile golfers.

* Newcastle united Football Club: The acquisition of the English Premier League club Newcastle United.

* Formula 1: Hosting the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, attracting a global audience.

* Boxing & Wrestling: Hosting major boxing and professional wrestling events, featuring world-renowned athletes.

* The Asian Winter Games 2029: Awarded to host the games, showcasing a commitment to diverse sporting events.

These investments demonstrate Saudi arabia’s ambition to become a major global sports hub. The ATP partnership aligns with this strategy, leveraging the international appeal of tennis to enhance the Kingdom’s image and attract tourism.

Potential Challenges & Controversies

While the tournament presents numerous opportunities, potential challenges exist:

* Human Rights Concerns: Saudi Arabia’s human rights record has drawn criticism from international organizations.The ATP will need to address these concerns and ensure the tournament aligns with its ethical standards.

* Logistical Considerations: Organizing a world-class tennis tournament in a new location requires significant logistical planning, including infrastructure development, transportation, and accommodation.

* Cultural Sensitivity: Adapting to local customs and traditions will be crucial for ensuring a positive experience for players, officials, and fans.

* Competition with Existing Events: Balancing the new tournament with the existing ATP calendar and avoiding conflicts with other major events will be essential.

Benefits for Tennis Fans

The new Saudi Arabian Masters 1000 tournament offers several benefits for tennis enthusiasts:

* More High-Level Tennis: An additional prestigious event to follow, featuring the world’s best players.

* Expanded Coverage: Increased television and streaming coverage of ATP Tour events.

* New Destination for Tennis Travel: Opportunities for fans to travel to Saudi Arabia and experience a unique