RIYADH: It only takes a few times shadowing Ons Jabeur around Riyadh to realize what a rock star she is in this part of the world. After becoming the first Arab in history to qualify for the WTA Finals in 2022, and replicating that feat in 2023, the Tunisian struggled with injuries this campaign and did not make the cut for the season finale in Riyadh. Still, as an Arab icon and history maker, Jabeur was invited to attend the inaugural Riyadh edition of the tournament and got to witness firsthand the biggest women’s sports event to be staged in Saudi Arabia.
Whether she was taking part in a meet and greet, tennis clinic or the opening ceremony, Jabeur was met with huge fanfare, which has only made her hungrier to qualify for the Finals in 2025. “I’m very happy to be here in Riyadh, the WTA Finals is happening here. I think it’s a great thing for women’s sport, for Arab women’s sport as well.
It’s the biggest event that ever happened for women in Saudi. It’s an amazing step,” Jabeur told Arab News. “I’m not very happy that I’m not playing, but also at the same time I’m happy that I’m here to check everything out.
It will be my motivation to qualify for next year. “I had time to rest my shoulder, I’m feeling much better than before. It allowed me to also recover mentally.
It’s been a tough couple of years going on tour, so to breathe in for a couple of months was really awesome and I can’t wait to come back in Australia.” A shoulder injury .
