Andy Murray’s mum Judy gives surprising verdict on WTA Finals Saudi Arabia controversy

Judy Murray has gone against the grain amid scepticism about the WTA Finals being held in Saudi Arabia for the next three years, claiming it is a huge opportunity for women’s tennis. A startling low attendance on day two has intensified criticism of the Middle Eastern state for agreeing to host the showcase event.

Tennis icons Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova have been among those who have slammed Saudi Arabia for presenting the WTA Finals due to the country’s human rights record.

Further concerns were raised when just 400 spectators were present at the King Saud University Indoor Arena, which holds crowds of 5,000, for Sunday’s action.

But Murray has urged women’s tennis to make the most of the WTA Finals’ three-year residence in Saudi Arabia, describing it as a glorious chance to elevate the game.

“You couldn’t ask for a better shop window for tennis and especially for women’s tennis with the WTA Finals being here for three years,” Murray told Sky Sports Tennis.

“And we need to max out on that opportunity whilst the role models and the top names in our sport are here.

“We need to raise awareness of the sport but underpin that with all the community engagement that we’re doing and say: ‘Come on, everyone can play.’

“This is a massive opportunity for tennis to be the catalyst for change in women’s sport in Saudi.”