Former World no. 1, Garbine Muguruza, didn't stay away from the tennis world for too long, as she was appointed as a tournament director for the WTA Finals in Riyadh.
Only in April of this year, the Spanish player retired from professional tennis. It came after prolonged absence from the sport, when she played her last at the 2023 Lyon Open in January of last year.
Over the period of her absence from the WTA Tour, Muguruza's statements slowly shifted from ones that suggested her comeback, to ones that made it clear that she likely wouldn't compete anymore.
However, even after retiring from the sport, she didn't spend a lot of time away from it, as she was now named as a tournament director for the WTA Finals in Riyadh.
In 2021, the Spaniard won the WTA Finals, so she has experience with the year-ending championships, and with the tournament set to remain in Riyadh until 2026, she will be the one to take care of it.
In 2024, the WTA Finals will run from November 2nd to 9th, and Muguruza will be closely working together with the WTA, the Saudi Tennis Federation and the Ministry of Sport, while serving as the tournament director.
"I feel very privileged to be able to contribute to the future of this great sport as Tournament Director of the WTA Finals Riyadh. I know how special this event is for our top players, and I’ve also seen its potential to inspire communities all over the world."
"I’m excited to work with a great team to present a showcase for women’s tennis that not only grows tennis but encourages all fans, and especially girls and women, to pursue their dreams.”
Steve Simon, who is the Chairman and CEO of the WTA, was happy with the choice, as he sees Muguruza as 'global role model' fit for the role of the tournament director.
"Garbiñe is a global role model who understands the power of sport to make a difference to people from all walks of life. I know she will have the best interests of our players at heart, while remaining dedicated to the wider goals of participation and inclusivity -- values on which the WTA was founded."
"She is a true champion, on and off court, and the perfect candidate for this critical role in what we believe will be a thrilling WTA Finals."
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