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A Day After Chris Evert’s Hard-Hit Confession, Martina Navratilova Joins the Party With Her Brutal Opinion on Saudi Arabia’s Deal With the WTA

Published 08/25/2023, 6:49 AM EDT

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The Saudis have been upfront when it comes to capturing the sports market. After successfully capturing Golf and now stepping up their pursuit into soccer, they have their sights set on the next target: tennis. The Southwest Asian country has long expressed its interest in investing in tennis with a proposal to host the ATP Next Gen Finals. However, this has brought out varying reactions from professional players and fans. Reacting to it was none other than one of the greatest players of all time, Martina Navratilova.

In a recent tweet, the 59-time grand slam winner shared her views on the ongoing debate and whether the Saudis should be given the green light!

Martina Navratilova issues her message regarding Saudi Arabia’s involvement in tennis

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Martina Navratilova has unflinchingly expressed her strong opposition to Saudi Arabia’s role in the sport. The Czech-American legend has taken a vocal and resolute stand against the involvement of the country in tennis. Her stance arises from a profound belief in the fundamental values that should underpin the game, and she has not hesitated to use her platform to address this pressing issue.

In a recent tweet that has garnered significant attention, Navratilova’s stance becomes even more apparent. The text of her tweet succinctly captures her conviction, saying, “I can tell you 100% if I were still playing, I would not be going [to Saudi Arabia] for the Championships.”

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This candid statement reflects the depth of her commitment and her clear refusal to compromise on her principles.

As a prominent figure in the tennis community, Martina Navratilova’s steadfast advocacy against Saudi involvement serves as a compelling reminder that the integrity of sports must be upheld, even in the face of powerful external influences. However, while Martina has been stiff at not letting Saudis enter the sport, there are many who think that their involvement in the sport could benefit them and the sport as well.

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Major players react to Saudi’s involvement in the sport

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios recently reacted to the involvement of the Saudis in tennis. He was the one who had been upfront in letting them enter the sport, citing that if they were involved, the players would get the pay that they actually deserve.

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WATCH THIS STORY | ‘Don’t Mind Getting A Bit Dirty’ – Aussie Star Nick Kyrgios Explores The ‘Roger Federer’ Connection To Wimbledon And His Nasty Desire To Win

Not only him, but the former player turned commentator, John McEnroe has also been vocal in casting his opinion about the Saudi’s involvement. He also expressed his desire for the merger to go ahead. Thus, over the last few months, there has been a difference of opinion when it comes to the involvement of the Saudis. While Martina Navratilova is strictly against the oil money involvement, players like Nick Kyrgios and former player John McEnroe have been vocal in expressing their side as well. Where do you stand?

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Written by:

Akshat Gaur

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Akshat Gaur is a Tennis Writer at EssentiallySports. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in 2021 and has been writing since then. With over two years of experience in the world of sports journalism, specifically tennis journalism, Akshat is someone who is immensely passionate about covering the ATP and the WTA Tour.
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Edited by:

Tony Thomas