American tennis star Coco Gauff is set to compete in Saudi Arabia for the World Tennis Tour championships and has met with Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud to discuss the treatment of women in the country. Gauff acknowledged that her father was concerned about her trip due to the country’s systematic discrimination against women. She had reservations about participating in the event citing the country’s treatment of women and the LGBTQ community. Gauff emphasized the importance of having a real program or plan in place for the visit rather than just playing the tournament and leaving.
Gauff drew parallels to her grandmother’s experience during the integration of public schools in the U.S., noting that change is often met with resistance but can ultimately lead to progress for everyone. Her maternal grandmother, Yvonne Lee Odom, was a civil rights activist who enrolled in an all-White school in Florida in 1961. Gauff expressed her desire to leave an impact on Saudi Arabia and believes that sports can help open doors and promote equality. The WTA has pledged to support the future Stars Program in Saudi Arabia, aiming to introduce more Saudi women to the sport of tennis.
Saudi Arabia has a male guardianship system in place, which restricts women’s rights and freedoms, and severe consequences for those who challenge societal norms. The country also prohibits LGBT relationships, public displays of affection, and gender expression, with harsh penalties including imprisonment, fines, or even the death penalty. Political writer Raif Badawi was sentenced to 1,000 lashes and 10 years in prison for founding an online forum for political debate. Despite being released in 2022, Badawi faces a travel ban, keeping him away from his family for a total of 21 years.
Gauff’s discussions with Princess Reema focused on LGBTQ issues and women’s rights, aiming to find ways to support and empower women in Saudi Arabia. The young tennis star hopes that her presence in the country will help promote change and equality, emphasizing the role that sports can play in opening doors and driving progress. Despite reservations about visiting Saudi Arabia, Gauff is committed to making a positive impact during her time in the country. She sees the potential for sports to be a catalyst for change and hopes that her involvement will inspire others to support equality and human rights.
