As the shadow of Saudi Arabia looms over women’s tennis, Maria Sharapova gives her views on one of the sport’s most controversial topics.

Exploring new territories is the next step for any successful industry. Having proven itself in almost every region of the world, it seems the WTA is finally ready to take on a bigger challenge. In his recent interview with Bloomberg, Maria Sharapova shed light on the direction the WTA could take. The Russian seemed pretty confident about her expectations for this next move.

While talking about the financial side of tennis, Sharapova gently began discussions about moving the WTA to Saudi Arabia. She highlighted all the challenges and requirements that the WTA will have to get used to in such a process. Although she has retired from the sport, Masha is still a part of the tennis community.

Maria Sharapova expresses her views on tennis in Saudi Arabia

The subject of the WTA in Saudi Arabia is a polarizing debate among players. But Sharapova opted for a more reasonable approach to this situation. According to her, it is a necessary step in the progression of the association.

Sharapova began by acknowledging that almost everyone within the WTA had thought about this question. She says: “There is a lot of talk about the arrival of female tennis players in Saudi Arabia.” She followed this with a confident remark, saying: “I’m sure this is a conversation we’ll be talking about for years to come.

All things aside, Sharapova is sure these aren’t just rumors. In his words: ” It happens. What is our comfort level and how can we change everything that’s going on out there, create a positive effect and change the message? Explaining that both sides will have to make a lot of adjustments for this to happen, she felt that such a change would not be driven solely by sport. Sending a positive message is equally important for the WTA. But getting to the root of it all, how exactly did players react to the Saudi-shaped elephant in the WTA room?

Saudi Arabia debate among WTA players

A few weeks ago, everyone was talking about the WTA Finals. if rumors are to be believed, the WTA Finals would take place for the first time in Saudi Arabia. However, after rounds of deliberations and negotiations, and immense backlash, the deal was not reached. Cancun has now been set as the meeting location.

At the time, Saudi involvement in tennis shook a lot of people. Many players have expressed their opinion based on this; Martina Navratilova was particularly not happy with this so-called decision. However, there were a few players like Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica Pegula, indifferent to location and largely focused on participation.

Maria Sharapova chose a very interesting topic to talk about. Discussions about Saudi Arabia are much more complex than they seem. However, she was certain that the WTA would hold an event in Saudi Arabia as soon as possible.

WATCH THIS STORY: Serena Williams pays tribute to Roger Federer