British tennis sensation Jack Draper has made a late withdrawal from a lucrative exhibition event in Saudi Arabia, sending ripples through the sport and intensifying the debate over its deepening financial ties with the Gulf state.
The 22-year-old, Britain's new men's No. 1, was slated to compete in the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh this October. His unexpected exit follows that of 2014 US Open winner Marin Cilic, who also pulled out of the high-profile tournament.
A Pattern of Withdrawals Emerges
While no official reason was provided for Draper's decision, it comes at a sensitive time for tennis's governing bodies. The ATP and WTA tours have faced mounting criticism for their expanding partnerships with Saudi Arabia, a nation frequently criticised for its human rights record.
This is not the first time Draper has withdrawn from a Saudi-backed event. He also pulled out of the Next Gen ATP Finals in Jeddah last year, further fuelling speculation about the motives behind his decisions.
The Bigger Picture: Sportswashing and Tennis's Future
The Six Kings Slam is a significant part of Saudi Arabia's ambitious push into elite tennis. The exhibition boasts a staggering $6 million prize money pool and is set to feature a roster of legends, including Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Carlos Alcaraz.
This move is seen by many as a clear extension of the country's broader 'sportswashing' strategy, following its heavy investments in football, golf, and Formula 1. The absence of players like Draper and Cilic highlights a growing, if quiet, unease within the sport about aligning with the Saudi regime.
As the ATP considers awarding its prestigious end-of-season finals to Riyadh, the actions of individual players are being closely watched. Draper's withdrawal may be a personal scheduling choice, but in the current climate, it speaks volumes.
