Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys offered measured responses to reports that the WTA Finals will not renew its contract with Saudi Arabia after 2026. Pegula said she had heard some details but noted no firm plans exist yet. Keys praised Charlotte as a potential host city.
Reports indicate the WTA will end its three-year deal with the Saudi Tennis Federation after this year and is seeking a new venue for the 2027 event. Charlotte is among the cities under consideration, according to Bounces. The tournament has been held in Riyadh since 2024 and drew praise from players and officials alike during its run there. WTA chief executive Portia Archer had expressed interest in extending the stay last year, telling The Athletic, “We signed on for a three-year term; we’d actually enjoy being here for even longer than we have been.” Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff also lauded the event's organization and success in Saudi Arabia. Elena Rybakina won the 2025 singles title there, defeating Sabalenka 6-3, 7-6 and earning $5.235 million from a record $15.5 million prize pool. Pegula, a semifinalist last year before losing to Rybakina, spoke at the Charleston Open media day. “I obviously kind of knew the three years is going to be up… I’ve been a little informed, but not too much because I don’t think they have any idea where it’s going to be yet,” she said. Keys, who exited in the group stage, endorsed Charlotte enthusiastically. “I think it would be a great city to host just because you already have so many fans built in, and I think the city would just be so excited to be able to come out and support WTA,” she added. Both Americans are competing at the 2026 Charleston Open, where Pegula defends her title against Yulia Putintseva on April 1.
