After early criticism of the kingdom’s entry into the sport, flagship WTA Finals event in Riyadh shows how sport’s balance of power has shifted

Before Carlos Alcaraz dismounted from the podium after his post-match interview in the final of the Six Kings Slam exhibition event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia earlier this month, the most accomplished young, male tennis player in the world had one more thing to say. Alcaraz took the microphone from the MC, Andrew Castle, and turned to his left.

“I just want to say thank you to his excellency for making this event possible,” he said, smiling. “I enjoyed it a lot. Last year, when I came here, this year with the best players in the world. Thank you very much for everything you have done for tennis, to bring it to the kingdom.”