World number one Aryna Sabalenka delivered a commanding performance at the WTA Finals Riyadh, eliminating defending champion Coco Gauff in straight sets to advance to the semifinals, while fellow American Jessica Pegula secured her spot with a decisive victory over Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in the Stefanie Graf Group matches on Tuesday.
Tournament Highlights
The prestigious tennis event, hosted for the first time in Riyadh, showcased world-class athleticism as Sabalenka demonstrated why she holds the top ranking, outplaying Gauff in a match that captured the attention of tennis enthusiasts worldwide. The Belarus native’s powerful baseline game proved too strong for the defending champion, marking a significant moment in this year’s WTA Finals.
Jessica Pegula continued her impressive run in the tournament, dispatching Jasmine Paolini in a straightforward victory that highlighted her consistent form throughout the competition. The American’s advancement to the semifinals adds another chapter to her remarkable 2025 season.
Doubles Competition
In the doubles category, the Liezel Huber Group produced compelling matchups, with Luisa Stefani and Timea Babos emerging victorious in a thrilling three-set battle against Gabriela Dabrowski and Erin Routliffe. The Czech-American partnership of Katerina Siniakova and Taylor Townsend also advanced after defeating Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider in straight sets.
Riyadh’s Growing Sports Profile
The successful staging of the WTA Finals in Riyadh represents a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a global sporting destination. The state-of-the-art facilities and professional organization have drawn praise from players and officials alike, demonstrating the Kingdom’s capability to host elite international sporting events.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The hosting of the WTA Finals aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives of developing a vibrant sports and entertainment sector. This prestigious tennis event not only promotes women’s sports in the region but also contributes to the Kingdom’s goals of becoming a leading destination for international sporting events, fostering tourism, and creating new opportunities for cultural exchange and economic growth.