Staging the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia can help to bring change on behalf of gender equality and LGBTQ rights in the kingdom, Coco Gauff said, although the former US Open champion added that she still had some reservations.

Perhaps no country has used sports to improve its reputation on the world stage more than Saudi Arabia. The country just hosted the Six Kings Slam, a non-ATP exhibition that showcased the best men's players with a $6.

Coco Gauff believes bringing the WTA Finals to Saudi Arabia can "open doors" and inspire positive change for women in the country, although the world number three admitted: "I'd be lying to you if I said I had no reservations".

Coco Gauff claimed just a second win in 13 meetings against Iga Swiatek to book her spot in the semi-finals of the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. The American’s 6-3 6-4 victory also ensures Aryna Sabalenka will finish the year as world number one, with defending champion Swiatek no longer able to overtake the Australian Open and US Open winner.

Coco Gauff defeats Iga Swiatek in straight sets at the 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on November 5, 2024.

Coco Gauff has admitted she has ‘reservations' over staging the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia despite stating the positive change the tournament can have in the country

Coco Gauff has admitted she is not comfortable playing the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. In April it was confirmed the WTA’s showpiece season finale, featuring the leading eight players in the world, would move to Riyadh for three years.