There were two main candidates to hold the 2023 WTA Finals, but none of them managed to secure the event, as another, third candidate got it.
For many weeks, it was rumoured that the 2023 WTA Finals might follow the 2023 Next Gen ATP Finals and be held in Saudi Arabia. However, then, the Czech Republic entered the talks, as the country could possibly have three players competing at the event.
Yet, eventually, the 2023 WTA Finals will be held in Cancun, Mexico, surprising everyone, including the players, who will now need to travel tens of hours if they want to compete at the WTA Finals, but also the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.
Since the organizers in the Czech Republic were one of the top favourites, it's not surprising that Tomas Petera, who was supposed to be the organizer of the event, was really angry about how the situation unfolded, and he talked about it to isport.cz.
"For five or six weeks, we handled and prepared all the essentials. We almost made a miracle. We've even sent a truck to London for the special purple color they ordered to paint the courts. Then they didn't even let us know that it would be played in Cancun."
Petera wasn't particularly happy about the fact, that according to his words, the WTA didn't let the organizers in the Czech Republic know, that the event would be eventually played in Cancun, Mexico. Moreover, he wasn't thrilled by the fact, that the organization of an event of such magnitude was discussed so late, something that players were also not happy about.
"It's just that the WTA policy makes absolutely no sense to me. Do you understand that until two months before the deadline it was not known where such an important event would be held? They just prove that they are complete dilettantes. They handle the biggest event they organize at the very last minute. Then they put him in Guadalajara, Dallas and Cancún, where they absolutely lack the fan base and the tennis facilities."
Petera also discussed the attractiveness for the fans, as up to four Czech players, including in doubles, could compete at the tournament, and since the Czech Republic neighbors with Poland, fans of Iga Swiatek would certainly be happy to come and support their player.
"In our project, there was a promise of sold-out or at least very decently filled halls in Ostrava and Prague. It looks like the participation of four Czechs, the Poles would be attracted by Iga Swiatek. I brought together sponsors and presented a very attractive budget."
When asked to explain why he thinks WTA made a different choice, Petera admitted that while he has his thoughts about the matter, he doesn't want to share them publicly, further explaining why in his eyes, their offer was the superior one.
"I ask exactly the same thing. I have a hunch, but I'd rather keep it to myself. Objectively, there is no relevant reason. After all, in Cancun, the association will pay for everything itself! And the arena looks like a basketball hall in some of our county towns.”
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