Saudi Ambassador Counters Criticisms of Women's Tennis Association Finals in Riyadh

Riyadh, - Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to the United States, Princess Reema bint Bandar, has responded to criticisms surrounding her country's hosting of the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Finals in Riyadh. In a direct response to an opinion piece in The Washington Post, the ambassador expressed disappointment with what she described as "outdated stereotypes and western-centric views" present in the article.

As a prominent advocate for women's rights, Ambassador Reema expressed her dismay at the perceived snub by the tennis community, stating, "Like many women around the world, we looked to the legends of tennis as trailblazers and role models...glimmers of hope that women truly could achieve it all. But these champions have turned their back on the very same women they have inspired, and it is beyond disappointing."

Seeking to clarify misconceptions about Saudi law, Princess Reema countered the claims that women in her country are diminished to the status of property. She stated, "Women do not need the approval of a guardian to travel, work, or be the head of their household," urging critics to "get your facts straight." She further highlighted the significant progress made by Saudi women, with over 300,000 businesses being owned by women and constituting approximately 25 percent of small and mid-size start-up companies, similar to statistics in the United States.

The ambassador emphasized the transformative changes in Saudi Arabia's society, highlighting the entry of Saudi women into traditionally male-dominated fields, including the military, law enforcement, and even space exploration. She underscored that equal pay is now a reality in Saudi Arabia.

Refocusing on sports, Princess Reema highlighted that Saudi Arabia has over 330,000 registered female athletes, including 14,000 tennis players. She emphasized the role of sports in driving social change and empowering women, expressing disappointment that critics tend to overlook these achievements in favor of political arguments for exclusion.

In an inclusive gesture, Ambassador Reema extended an invitation to her critics, stating, "But I will welcome them as mine. Because my table isn't limited by political views, borders, race, or geography." She affirmed her commitment to sharing Saudi Arabia's narrative, not for approval, but to foster productive dialogue and highlight the global journey of women's empowerment.

Princess Reema's response showcases the determination of Saudi Arabia to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity, and continue progressing towards gender equality and women's empowerment within the nation and on the global stage.