Taylor Townsend, the WTA doubles World No. 1, recently spoke out in defense of the Saudi WTA Finals, describing her time in Riyadh as “one of the best experiences” despite ongoing criticism regarding the country‘s human and women’s rights record. Townsend provided her perspective following her participation in the year-end championship held in Saudi Arabia’s capital last year, emphasizing a side of the event and region often overlooked by Western media.

Townsend qualified for the doubles competition at the WTA Finals in Riyadh alongside her partner, Katerina Siniakova, competing against top pairs in one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. Although the duo fell to Gabriela Dabrowski and Erin Routliffe in straight sets during the final match, their partnership has been highly successful, securing major titles including the 2024 Wimbledon, the 2025 Australian Open, and a WTA 1000 victory in Dubai. Townsend’s recount of her stay in Saudi Arabia challenged the prevalent negative narratives associated with the region, particularly about women’s treatment.

Taylor Townsend’s Positive Firsthand Account of the Riyadh Event

Reflecting on her six weeks spent in the Middle East, Townsend expressed surprise at the gulf between media perceptions and her personal experience. She highlighted the championship at the King Saud University Indoor Arena as among the finest tournaments she has played in, urging the public to reconsider preconceived notions about women’s status in Saudi Arabia.

I went to Riyadh, and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. The Year End Championship was incredible—one of the best tournaments I’ve played. I really hope that people can unsubscribe to the thoughts that women are treated poorly there, because they are not. I spent almost six straight weeks in the Middle East. I didn’t experience or witness anything negative, not even one time…

—Taylor Townsend, WTA doubles World No. 1

Townsend’s positive remarks come as the WTA Finals returned to Asia for the first time since 2019, marking the debut of Saudi Arabia as host. The contract to hold the tournament in Riyadh extends through 2026. She emphasized the importance of respecting cultural differences and warned against judging environments without full context.

The narrative around propaganda media of how women are treated… is not what I saw at all. I think their investment shows they value women. To me, it’s a progressive step.

—Taylor Townsend, WTA doubles World No. 1

Historically, Saudi Arabia has faced criticism for its gender inequality issues, but recent years have seen notable reforms aiming to close this gap. Legal changes have gradually improved opportunities and rights for women in the Kingdom, reflecting a shifting social landscape that Townsend believes the media often fails to acknowledge.

Significance of Saudi Arabia Hosting the WTA Finals

Saudi Arabia’s decision to invest heavily in the WTA Finals and other major sporting events signals its intent to enhance its international image and encourage sports participation, including among women. This move stands in contrast to the persistent criticism from Western media, which often focuses on the country’s human rights record without similar scrutiny toward other nations with comparable issues.

The tournament’s presence in Riyadh makes the city a focal point for tennis in the region and provides a platform for female athletes to compete at the highest level in an environment that Townsend describes as supportive and professional. Her experience challenges widely held assumptions and may influence future perceptions of the sport’s growth in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East.

Townsend Commends WTA’s Maternity Support Program Backed by Saudi Investment

In addition to her remarks about the Saudi WTA Finals, Townsend praised the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program, which supports female tennis players during pregnancy by offering up to 12 months of paid maternity leave. This pioneering initiative was launched through a partnership between the WTA and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, signaling further commitment to advancing women’s roles within professional sports.

Knowing there’s going to be some income during a time when you can’t compete is huge. It gives women a chance to plan their future. In women’s sports, you often have to choose: be a mom or be an athlete. Now we’re in a place where that narrative is shifting. What the WTA is doing is phenomenal. Now you have a backup plan — egg freezing, hormone testing, all of it.

—Taylor Townsend, WTA doubles World No. 1

Townsend, who reached the World No. 1 doubles ranking in July 2024 as the first mother to do so, emphasized how essential such support systems are for changing the traditional challenges faced by women athletes balancing career and family. Historically, female players have had to endure financial insecurity and sponsorship losses after motherhood. High-profile cases, like Nike’s 70% sponsorship reduction of track star Allyson Felix upon becoming a mother, illustrate these challenges.

The Broader Impact of Townsend’s Statements

Taylor Townsend’s endorsement of Saudi Arabia’s WTA Finals and praise for its backing of female athletes serve as an important counterpoint to dominant narratives portraying the country negatively. Her experiences call for a more nuanced view of the region’s evolving role in global sports, especially for women.

As Saudi Arabia continues hosting the prestigious WTA Finals through 2026, Townsend’s perspective may encourage other players and observers to reconsider biases and recognize the progress made. Meanwhile, the WTA’s maternity fund and related programs could inspire similar initiatives across sports, fostering greater support for women athletes worldwide as they navigate motherhood alongside professional careers.