WTA tennis event at Queen’s Club heralds success.
For the first time in over fifty years, Tatjana Maria became the inaugural female champion at Queen’s Club, when she unexpectedly clinched the HSBC Championships before 9,000 spectators on Sunday. The WTA 500 event marked the return of top-tier women’s tennis to West London, a venue destined to become a fixture on the women’s circuit. Marina Storti, head of WTA Ventures, expressed delight that the tournament enjoyed near full capacity throughout its duration. Despite local favourite and British No.1 Emma Raducanu not reaching the final, fans relished witnessing women’s grass court tennis in central London for the first time in generations.
Storti, speaking to City AM, noted the event’s significant growth impact. “It’s incredible, especially since the WTA was founded here. To sell out in its first year is a remarkable achievement, and it promises continued development,” she said. Despite Eastbourne’s relegation to accommodate Queen’s, ticket interest for its events reportedly remains strong.
WTA Ventures, in collaboration with CVC Capital Partners, was formed following a £125m investment by the private equity firm for a 20% stake. CVC’s sports portfolio also includes LaLiga, Six Nations Rugby, and IPL’s Gujarat Titans. Storti emphasised CVC’s role as a strategic partner, committed to long-term investment in the sport. Their involvement, alongside a sponsorship agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and hosting the WTA Finals, is boosting the WTA’s commercial prospects. Reports suggest CVC has bid $1bn for major tennis events, underscoring the strength of their investment.
Any progress could expedite merger discussions between the WTA and ATP, though numerous stakeholders complicate the process. Storti described the tennis landscape as a “complex ecosystem” with opportunities for simplification. “Together, we are stronger,” she said. She highlighted the shared interest of partners and fans in both men’s and women’s tennis, suggesting collaboration could enhance the sport. While discussions are complex and time-consuming, there is mutual willingness to unify efforts.
The successful debut of a women’s event at Queen’s Club is unsurprising to Londoners but a relief to the WTA. With tennis popularity soaring and the British grass court season poised for another successful run, the commercial outlook is promising, provided stakeholders can navigate bureaucratic challenges.
