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Great day tour with Simon hiked on the... - China Highlights - Beijing

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Great day tour with Simon hiked on the Jingshanling great wall

The walk along the wall was a once in life time experience, China Highlights supplied an excellent service and our guide Simon Yao was amazing. I would totally recommend this tour to my friends traveling to China in the future.Thanks China Highlights,Thanks Simon made our Jinshanling great wall trip unforgettable

Hi there It's great to know you had an unforgettable time along the Jingshanling Section of the Great Wall. Hope you can visit again. Customer-care Team

We had a memorable private tour with China Highlights. Being the cold winter, it was not easy to get around, and having a private tour helped. Our guide, Ethan, was excellent. He was always punctual and never kept us waiting. He was also sensitive to our needs, and was prepared to accommodate our requests. With his relatively good command of English, communication was not an issue. His knowledge on matter related to the tour was also good. The driver, Mr Ma, was also a very friendly and careful driver. Thank you Ethan and Mr Ma.

Hi there Dusty-Tan Thanks for your feedback and special mention of Ethan and Mr Ma. We're glad that you had a memorable experience with them in Beijing. Customer-care Team

This is my first trip to China and it snowed heavily on the 1st day we arrived - this was what I wanted, beautifully snow covered Beijing. It is important to have a properly planned itinerary and a good tour guide - we didn't waste any time at all. We were lucky to have Tom from China Highlights as our guide. Not only was he pleasant, he was punctual, very helpful and knowledgeable. He even helped us all the way to our train seat. And, thank you China Hightlights and Tom, for the birthday surprise.

Hi there We're pleased that you had a wonderful stay in Beijing and that it was covered in snow for you. What a special time to travel to celebrate your birthday there. Customer-care Team

Tom was a good and knowledgeable guide who was very helpful. He knew a lot about Beijing and the history of China, even in English. He also knows where to buy things at good price and went beyond to make sure we were alright as we settle our personal things. He was also very accommodating as my mother, who is old, had trouble walking on slippery ice or climbing stairs. He made sure we were safe and comfortable as the weather these few days were extra cold. Would recommend taking this tour for anyone visiting Beijing.

Hi there Thanks for sharing your experience and recommendation for this tour. We're glad that you and your mum were looked after. Customer-care Team

Jessie He was so kind, looking all the time us to enjoy and learn a lot about Chinese culture. Her English is perfect, we enjoy a lot the time with her. Also she takes us to the best restaurant we enjoy a lot the food. She take care a lot of us.

Nice views Not too much people Jessi (guide ) so friendly and she have a great service & she knows the answer of all your questions

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WTA Tour Seeks Chinese Inquiry Into Player’s Sexual Assault Accusation

Calls for an investigation into allegations by the Chinese player Peng Shuai came with the threat that the tour might walk away from its deep ties to China.

By Christopher Clarey

PARIS — Steve Simon, the chief executive of the WTA Tour, called on Sunday for Chinese authorities to investigate allegations of sexual assault made by the Chinese women’s tennis star Peng Shuai against Zhang Gaoli, a former vice premier of China.

Simon also called for an end to official Chinese censorship on the subject, and suggested the tour would consider no longer doing business in China if it did not see “appropriate results.”

“Obviously she displayed tremendous courage going public,” Simon said of Peng. “Now we want to make sure we’re moving forward to a place where a full and transparent investigation is conducted. Anything else, I think, is an affront to not only our players but to all women.”

Simon added: “If at the end of the day, we don’t see the appropriate results from this, we would be prepared to take that step and not operate our business in China if that’s what it came to.”

Simon’s comments could endanger the tour’s extensive business relationship with China, where the WTA has 11 tournaments and a lucrative, long-term deal to hold its tour finals in Shenzhen.

“I think everybody fully understands what’s at stake here on many different fronts as we’re going through it,” Simon said. He added, “I think we’re certainly, from players to board to council, fully united that the only acceptable approach is that of doing what is right.”

Challenging China has in the past had significant consequences for sports organizations, including the N.B.A., the Premier League and, more personally, for the Premier League soccer star Mesut Özil , who was virtually erased from the Chinese internet in 2019 after criticizing the treatment of the Uighurs, a largely Muslim minority in the region of Xinjiang.

Tennis’s ties to China are deep though, and even as Simon called for an investigation the tour was making overtures to Chinese fans. After a match at the WTA Finals on Sunday in Mexico — an event relocated from China — and hours after the WTA released a statement condemning the Chinese, the Czech star Karolina Pliskova was asked to film a promotional spot on behalf of the WTA in which she watched messages wishing her well from Chinese fans on an iPad, then recited a short script that culminated with, “I hope to see you soon in China.”

Peng, 35, was once ranked No. 1 in doubles and as high as No. 14 in singles, reaching the U.S. Open singles semifinals in 2014 . She has not competed on tour since February 2020, shortly before the coronavirus pandemic shut it down for several months.

Peng made the allegations against Zhang, 75, on Nov. 2 on her verified account on Weibo, a Chinese social media platform. She said she met Zhang earlier in her career and had a consensual relationship with him. She said he sexually assaulted her shortly after he stepped down as one of China’s top leaders in 2017.

Peng acknowledged in the post that she could not produce evidence to substantiate her accusation, suggesting that Zhang had been intent on keeping their relationship secret. Her post was taken down within 30 minutes, and searches of her name appeared to be blocked in China as did, temporarily, searches for “tennis.”

Peng has not made any public statements since the post was removed. Chinese officials have not acknowledged the accusations or shown any indication that they intend to investigate them, and there have been concerns in the tennis community and beyond for Peng’s safety.

“We’ve received confirmation from several sources, including the Chinese Tennis Association, that she is safe and not under any physical threat,” Simon said. But Simon said that no one associated with the WTA Tour, including officials and active players, had been able to reach her directly to confirm her status.

“My understanding is that she is in Beijing in China, but I can’t confirm that because I haven’t spoken directly with her,” Simon said.

Simon acknowledged that the tour may have little leverage to influence Chinese officialdom.

“I’m not sitting here and thinking that I’m going to solve the world’s problems by any means,” he said. “But what I am here to do is that we have an athlete that’s part of the WTA family that’s come out with serious allegations. We’re going to be 100 percent supportive of that, and we want to see a full investigation on this.

“If that isn’t the case and if they are not cooperative, then we’ll have to make some decisions, and we’re prepared to do so, and that’s the best we can do. But we’re not going to back off this position. It’s the right place to be.”

Chinese authorities have routinely retaliated when faced with outside criticism. In 2019, broadcasts of the N.B.A. were temporarily halted on Chinese state television after Daryl Morey, a former Houston Rockets executive who is now with the Philadelphia 76ers, tweeted his solidarity with pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong. The league’s commissioner, Adam Silver, later said that the fallout had cost the league hundreds of millions of dollars.

Last month, Boston Celtics games were pulled from the Chinese internet after Enes Kanter, one of the team’s players, called President Xi Jinping of China a “brutal dictator” on social media.

“Look, I can’t speak to the decisions that the N.B.A. made,” Simon said. “They had, obviously, different issues. But in this situation, the WTA issue is about potential sexual assault of one of our players. That is something that simply can’t be compromised.”

The WTA Tour has increasingly focused on the Chinese market over the last decade, culminating with the 10-year deal to stage the tour finals in Shenzhen that began in 2019. Simon said the Chinese organizers planned to invest “more than $1 billion” over the life of the deal, including the cost of a new stadium, and they doubled the event’s prize money to $14 million.

But the 2020 finals, along with most Chinese tournaments, were canceled because of the pandemic. None of the 11 scheduled WTA tournaments in China were held this year as China continued to restrict foreigners from entering the country. The WTA has managed to fill the slots on the calendar with new or temporary events, often with smaller purses. The WTA Finals, which will conclude on Wednesday, were moved to Guadalajara, Mexico, where prize money is a comparatively low $5 million but enthusiasm and crowds have been significant.

Christopher Clarey has covered tennis and global sports for The Times and the International Herald Tribune for more than 25 years from bases in France, Spain and the United States. His book “The Master: The Long Run and Beautiful Game of Roger Federer” was published in 2021. More about Christopher Clarey

Silk Road Tours 2024/25; China & Central Asia Exploration

As the world's oldest trade route, the Silk Road serves not only as a conduit for commerce but also as a vibrant pathway for art and culture. Our carefully curated private Silk Road tours offer an accessible and flexible pace, enabling participants of all backgrounds to immerse themselves in the rich history, cultural relics, ethnic minorities, stunning landscapes, and local interactions found along this legendary route.

Accompanied by our expert local tour guides and exclusively tailored arrangements, you'll follow in the footsteps of ancient caravans as you traverse the incredible countries and areas bordering the Silk Road such as China, the five Stans and Caucasus , and delve deep into the very heartbeat of this historic and enthralling region.

Silk Road Tours in China and Staring from China

The following routes are examples to help you tailor your own Silk Road tour. Remember all these tour packages can be changed according to your needs.

• Best choice for a bucket list trip
• Panorama of the Silk Road
• Throughout the Silk Road
• History, culture and landscape
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• Main cities and core destinations of Silk Road
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China Silk Road Tours with the Extensions

The following itinerary are recommended for those who wish to combine the China Silk Road tour with major cities or less-traveled neighboring areas.

• 1st time visit China
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• Golden Poplar Forests
• Rainbow Mountains
• Tibetan Culture Outside Tibet
• Stunning View of Plateau

Silk Road Tours in Central Asia and Caucasus

The following private tours of the Caucasus and Central Asia have been designed to cover landscapes of natural beauty and the unique mix of cultures and history along the Ancient Silk Road. All can be tailor-made for your own private travel schedule and interests in this region.

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Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Silk Road Tours FAQs

Highlights along the Silk Road route are listed as below. Please inquire if you have any questions and our professtional travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.

The best time to travel is from May to October. Weather conditions are pleasant from late spring to early autumn, with an average temperature of 15 °C. Although summer weather can be scorching, the heat is dry and more comfortable than in the humid tropics. The scenery is ideal when the fruits ripen, the flowers are in full bloom, and green grass covers grassland areas.

Bring warm clothing even in the hot summer, as the temperature can change greatly between day and night in some places along the route.

Bring shoes suitable for walking.

Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip creams to protect your eyes and skin from the sun. Also consider bringing a moisturizer because the air is very dry in the desert areas.

Bring some medicine for diarrhea and heat stroke.

When visiting religious sites such as mosques, women should wear long–sleeve clothes. At certain times women are not allowed to enter mosques. Taking photos at some attractions is forbidden; please follow your tour guide's lead. When you shop at the market, bargaining is taboo if you do not intend to make the purchase.

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Steve Simon: the WTA boss placing principle ahead of profit in standing up to China

The American’s intervention over Peng Shuai is typical of a skilled, innovative administrator capable of deft leadership

S hortly before Steve Simon was appointed chair of the WTA Tour in 2015, he orchestrated the end of one of the great boycotts in tennis. In brokering the return of Serena Williams to Indian Wells, a tournament he served as chief executive for more than a decade from 2004, Simon did tennis a significant service.

The incident demonstrates the character of a leader who has stunned the world by placing principle ahead of profit in suspending tournaments in China in 2022 due to the extreme concern the WTA holds for Peng Shuai.

When returning to Indian Wells, the biggest tournament outside the majors, in 2015, Williams praised Simon’s professionalism, noting “he cares about the opinions of the players”. The boycott was sparked when the American superstar was subjected to booing she is certain had racial undertones after her triumph in the Coachella Valley in California in 2001. “He is a good listener and he has our best interests in mind,” Williams said.

This is a leading trait for a man who started off in the sport industry as a tennis coach and is now considered a skilled, innovative administrator capable of deft leadership. Maria Sharapova benefited from his support, rightly or wrongly, during and after her return from a doping sanction in the infancy of his leadership of the WTA Tour. During the initial Covid-19 storm, he spoke regularly to players including Ash Barty and Simona Halep to gauge their reactions, placing an emphasis on the health of participants.

American tennis journalist Peter Bodo recently described Simon, who played mixed doubles at Wimbledon in the 1980s after a collegiate career at Long Beach State University, as appearing more like an accountant than a field general. The level of leadership he has shown in dealing with an authoritarian regime on a matter of principle and player safety is very much in keeping with the latter.

A social media post from Peng on 2 November, accusing a senior Chinese Communist Party leader of sexual assault, has sparked a remarkable intervention from Simon. By suspending all WTA tournaments in China and Hong Kong in 2022, the American has demonstrated again that he will listen to and put the interests and welfare of his players’ first.

“None of this is acceptable, nor can it become acceptable,” he said. “If powerful people can suppress the voices of women and sweep allegations of sexual misconduct under the rug, then the basis on which the WTA was founded – equality for women – would suffer an immense setback. I will not and cannot let that happen to the WTA and its players.”

The price is significant. It has the potential to cost the WTA what is estimated to be more than $1bn in revenue. It also effectively upends years of investment in building relationships in the Asia-Pacific. Simon said the WTA could return to China in 2023 if a transparent investigation into Peng’s allegations occurs and if it is completely satisfied for her safety. But it is difficult to see China viewing the extraordinary protest with anything other than anger.

It is also at odds with the actions of other sporting bodies, with the candour of the WTA chief executive casting in ordinary light some fellow tennis partners and other sporting organisations. There are other risks for current members of the WTA Tour and administration to consider. What does the touring future hold for the six Chinese women currently ranked inside the world’s top 200 players, for example?

It continues to be an extremely stressful time for Simon and the entirety of the WTA. Many in the tennis world stand with them. Billie Jean King said the WTA is “on the right side of history in supporting our players”, while Martina Navratilova, who defected from Czechoslovakia, called it a brave and principled stance.

The ATP Tour provided an initial statement of support for the WTA and Peng in November, although it is yet to clarify its commitment to tournaments through the October swing in China. Australian John Millman, who is on the ATP Players Council, said there are “far bigger things in the world than a game of tennis” to consider, while the USTA described the leadership as courageous and what is needed to “ensure the rights of all individuals are protected”.

In the WTA’s 2021 media guide, Simon was hailed for his globalisation of the WTA and its expansion into the Asia-Pacific. The challenge now will be to find new markets to thrive in.

The pandemic, despite its challenges, has provided a template. The WTA Tour Finals held in Guadalajara in November had a fraction of the prize money offered by Shenzhen, which has a contract worth A$210m extending through to 2030, but proved successful given the attendances and atmosphere on site. There has also been no shortage of countries seeking temporary Covid-19 licences. The inaugural WTA event in Nur Sultan, Kazakhstan in September is an example.

Existing markets including the United States, Europe and Australia have also provided more playing opportunities for women over the past two years. While it continues to fight for human rights as a core objective, the WTA will look to convert other opportunities under Simon’s stewardship.

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'The audience is growing' - WTA CEO Steve Simon on tour issues, on-court coaching in Singapore

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SINGAPORE - During the annual WTA Year-End press conference at the BNP Paribas WTA Finals Singapore presented by SC Global, WTA CEO Steve Simon was effusive in his assessment of where things stood after a year of growth for the tour.

“From my perspective, the WTA, at least during my time here and during the years in which I was a board member and before that as a tournament director, has never felt or seemed stronger or better than it is today,” he opened on Wednesday evening.

Sitting alongside WTA President Micky Lawler, Simon noted projected a broadcast viewership of 600 million, and digital viewership of 300 million, “up 20% from last year.”

Look at the top of our game right now, being led by Simona and Caroline, Angie, Sloane. We then have players that are going to be in the history books that are still playing and very competitive on the tour: Serena, Venus, Maria. That creates a very compelling storyline. - WTA CEO Steve Simon

“I think what's driving it is really a deep and diverse product that we have going right now. When you think about the depth of our sport and our product, we've got some amazing young athletes out there.

"When you look at the depth, again this year, we had four Grand Slam winners, individuals, different, and we had four different Premier Mandatory winners, as well. You don't do that without tremendous depth to be at these level events and winning this.”

Leading the WTA tour since 2016, Simon went on to discuss the WTA Finals’ last year in Singapore before it moves to its new home in Shenzhen.

“There is no question that the WTA Finals and its product and its brand of an event is at a significantly higher level than it was five years ago.

“I think that you can see that through this year we will have record attendance again. I believe it will exceed last year's 133,000 people. You have seen it the first few nights at the event. You have seen it in the evolution of the fans here.

"When I came here the first year, the opening year, I think you could have heard a pin drop in that stadium, because everybody was so polite and pristine. When you watch the matches now, there is a lot of energy, fun, enjoyment, entertainment, which I think really shows the growth.”

Seeing the WTA Finals’ continued presence in Asia as a testament to the tour’s dedication to the region, Lawler reported impressive numbers from Chinese broadcast partners iQiyi, who have increased viewership in China “from four million people in 2014 to 39 million people in 2017.”

The floor was then opened to questions, where Simon and Lawler addressed media concerns ranging from the evolution of on-court coaching to mental health maintenance.

“Coaching, from my perspective, is here to stay as a part of the WTA,” said Simon. “I would say, as we evolve, coaching will probably evolve. Is the on-court coaching approach that we have today the right one? Or should it be evolving to a different level of coaching? That's something that we are certainly looking at and we will continue to look at.”

“[Mental health] is the topic that as a mother worries me the most,” Lawler added. “Even more than physical injuries. In the age of social media when the image is so important and to perhaps lose authenticity because you have all these filters on social media, it's a big deal.

“Our athletes sometimes are not there because they chose this path; somebody else chose this path for them. We have to be extremely alert and sensitive and we have to be their extended family.”

Watch the full press conference on the WTA's official Facebook page.

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In the last 10 months, Katie Boulter won her first two Hologic WTA Tour titles, stormed up the rankings, and transformed into a threat in any draw. She joins the podcast to discuss how she engineered it all.

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Changing Times – WTA Chief Steve Simon On the State of Tennis

Bill Simons

Indian Wells

Tennis isn’t the most international sport. Soccer can claim that mantle. Tennis might not be the most athletic. Hoops is pretty amazing. But, by far, tennis is the foremost co-ed sport. It’s the not-so-secret sauce of the sport.

The WTA stands apart as an innovative women’s sports organization, and there’s always intrigue and wonder. 

Going back to names like Suzanne Lenglen, Helen Wills Moody, Alice Marble, and Althea Gibson through to Billie Jean, Chrissie, Martina, Seles, Graf, Serena, Venus, Kournikova, Sharapova, Li Na, Osaka, Barty and Swiatek, there have always been sizzling story lines and cutting-edge issues. Women’s backhands and we-shall-overcome justice issues have rarely been strangers. 

Fifty years ago, the Battle of the Sexes was a cultural earthquake that forever changed the landscape in sports, and far beyond. The Original 9 were a fearless pioneer group who had the mighty shaking in their boots. The still unfinished fight for equal pay has been an epic battle. And, all the while, girls from Moscow basement apartments, the LA inner city or little known Chinese towns have risen to claim fame and fortune.

In her prime, Maria Sharapova was making $30 million a year. That was nothing, Naomi Osaka made $55 million. And 20-year-old Emma Raducanu, who is No. 77, has a net worth of $5 million.

Now, women’s tennis is navigating some fascinating but treacherous waters. Its most shining personalities are off the scene. Serena has “transitioned” to a world of Super Bowl commercials, super-mothering and super venture capital deals. The long-injured Venus is ranked No. 666. The game’s No. 1 player, Ash Barty, suddenly retired last year. Naomi Osaka is pregnant.

Young players with sizzle, Raducanu and Coco Gauff, have yet to explode into true super stardom. And the game’s highest performing players still have issues. Iga Swiatek is a bold, smart, courageous figure, but doesn’t yet have the charisma or intrinsic charm endearing to casual fans.

Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka is a delightful 24-year-old with a smile that melts your heart. Still, to most, she remains a distant figure. And the current Wimbledon winner, Kazakhstani Elena Rybakina, is about as impassive a champion you can get. Reporters have long been searching for compelling story lines, but with limited success. Good luck if you want to ask her “what makes your boat float” types of questions. 

All the while, the WTA and the ATP remain two very different forces that are still far off from uniting.

Outside of majors, there is still a huge discrepancy in pay. On the circuit, ATP players get about 70% more prize money than the women. And the WTA’s all-chips-in move to make China a huge part of the tour imploded two years ago when the group suspended play due to the accusations of sexual assault that Sheng Puai courageously wrote about.

Here at this year’s BNP Paribas Open, there have been a bounty of WTA stories. The macho Canadian Denis Shapovalov made a lengthy, impassioned plea for men and women’s equality. There are indications that Russian and Belarusian players might not again be banned from Wimbledon. Russia’s Anastasia Potapova was warned by the WTA to not wear a Moscow soccer jersey again.

There are tense relationships like never before in the locker room over Russia’s military invasion, and Ukraine’s Lesia Tsurenko had a panic attack after she spoke with WTA CEO Steve Simon about the WTA’s relationship to the Ukrainians. She was upset by the WTA’s reported unwillingness to step in and more actively support Ukrainians who can not go home due to devastating war conditions and therefore face astronomical costs as a result of continually being on the road and in hotels. Plus, Tsurenko reportedly called on the WTA to ban Russians and Belarusians from playing in the 2024 Olympics.

Meanwhile, back in the boardroom, after a year and a half of planning the WTA announced a $150 million infusion of capital after agreeing to assign 20% of the WTA Tour to CVC, a respected Luxembourg-based investment group that has bought into many sports: Formula 1, soccer, cricket and volleyball. 

The money will be much appreciated, especially in the absence of massive revenues from China. But some wonder what the impact will be of CVC owning a big chunk of the WTA. Plus, tennis has been battered by the collapse of seemingly appealing pie-in-the sky deals with outside entities that soon failed miserably. 

In 1999, the Swiss Marketing group ISL Worldwide signed a 10-year agreement for $1.2 billion with the ATP that disintegrated in two years. In 2018, the International Tennis Federation signed a 25-year, $3 billion deal with the Spanish investment group Kosmos, which led to devastating changes to the once venerable Davis Cup event. Now the partnership has imploded.

With all this swirl of activity, Inside Tennis decided to sit down with the WTA’s CEO Steve Simon. 

Once a player at Long Beach State, Simon has a long history in the game. He played mixed doubles at Wimbledon, worked for Adidas, and for years drew rave reviews as the low-key but highly effective manager of the Indian Wells tournament. Since he became the WTA’s CEO, he’s been one of the most effective commissioners in sports. His courageous stance relating to the Peng Shuai incident was widely applauded. Here’s our conversation. 

INSIDE TENNIS: There have been so very many extraordinary sports pioneers in the WTA. Why is that so?

STEVE SIMON: That’s an interesting question. It says so much about women and the strength of women and what they stand for. The WTA’s players are just such great athletes. They believe strongly – and they believe strongly in right and wrong. They all bring the same traits. 

They are fierce competitors on the court and fierce competitors in life and have extremely strong beliefs on what’s right, what’s wrong and on equality, and whatever is of interest to them. And that says a lot about women and women athletes.

IT: Did this whole mindset start with Billie Jean King, Rosie Casals and the Original 9? 

SIMON: Look, there have been women leaders for decades. With Billie Jean and the Original 9 who were focused on the idea that every young talented woman player who wanted an opportunity to play would have that opportunity. They had a passion for that, they believed in it and they were trailblazers and there were certainly some great trailblazers in the world before that too and they followed them. 

IT: There are players from 31 countries here at Indian Wells. India’s Sania Mirza just retired. A while ago Li Na transformed tennis in Asia. Tunisian Ons Jabeur has been an inspiration. Is there a quality of empowerment that the WTA brings? 

SIMON: What we bring is opportunity. That’s what Billie Jean and the Original 9 started this tour on. That is the opportunity for everybody to have a chance to play. The WTA and our celebration of 50 years and has been about that and how it has grown and have continued to provide a pathway; how we started as just a US-based circuit and now are global. Seeing a Tunisian player and a tournament in Tunisia shows that.

IT: If you could change one thing in tennis what would it be? 

SIMON: I’d like to see the sport be fully integrated. That’s to say that we don’t have the organizational fragmentation. We should be one professional body running the game.

IT: What were your thoughts about the article by the ATP player Denis Shapovalov that called for equality ?

SIMON: It’s great. It’s wonderful and strong when a male athlete is speaking up on behalf of female athletes. What he said was right. But it’s a challenging discussion because there’s such a big division between the valuation of the rights that are being realized by a male’s professional life and assets versus a female’s. That’s what creates the economic issues between the two and we have to find a way to close that gap…So and you know I applauded Denis for stepping up and reflecting that. 

IT: Your position is that Wimbledon should be open to all players. 

SIMON: Our position has been consistent that our tournaments should be open to all players who are eligible…That is the WTA’s founding principle.

I don’t know how to condemn strongly enough the invasion of Ukraine from Russia nor the Russian government and everything they stand for…[But] I don’t think that necessarily the athlete should be punished as a result of the decisions that their government has made because we’ve had many other situations in the world where bad things have happened with countries and there have been decisions that we may not agree with and those athletes have competed. 

So I definitely believe the athlete on an individual basis should be able to compete and it is in no way a reflection of what our feeling is as far as what is going on over there.

IT: As for the situation with China’s Peng Shuai, you’ve said that you have had reassurances that she is okay, but you want a personal meeting with her. 

SIMON: We do know that she is safe and doing okay. I do want to speak with her directly. I haven’t yet, and our position on that hasn’t changed. We’ll make a decision on [playing late season tournaments in] Asia towards the end of this month. 

IT: The WTA had made such an investment in the Asian tournaments and so much money was involved. How did suspending play affect the tour?

SIMON: As I said, when we took the position, we knew there would be issues, and it would be complicated. and there would be challenges and we would have to take that on. We certainly have managed it and will continue to manage it and it certainly won’t define our future success.

IT: We have sources that say the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic in San Jose has been sold to the venture capitalist Mark Ein, who owns the Citibank tournament in Washington DC.

SIMON: That hasn’t been presented to us as of yet.

IT: Serena and Ash Barty retired. Venus has been off the tour. Naomi is pregnant. Talk about the appeal of the WTA in this time of transition.

SIMON: The appeal is that this is an exciting and entertaining group of players to watch. We celebrate Serena and always will…She’s amazing…If you look at this new group of players, it’s very diverse. They are great personalities and unbelievably quality women. For sure, they’re going to be the next trail blazers and, if you look at the quality of play and athleticism, these players are second to none.

IT: There’s a lot of criticism that the WTA circuit is so tough. Yes, players travel the world, but it’s such a solitary life. On the tour, it’s “win or go home.” What would you say to young girls about the WTA? What is its appeal? Is it still an endeavor to go for? 

SIMON: Absolutely! If you have any interest in the sport, if you have the athletic ability, tennis is something that you should definitely focus on. It provides you an opportunity to play on the biggest stages in the world. It’s a global sport and it’s still the No. 1 women’s professional sport. The opportunities that can come from it both on the court and off the court are second to none.

IT: What would you say to critics that argue for women’s matches being the best of three sets and, at the majors, men’s matches being the best of five ?

SIMON: I’ve been consistent. If you want us to play best of five, we’ll play tomorrow. But that’s not the issue. I don’t think that the best of five is in the best interest of male players either. The game has changed and all we are doing now is beating up our athletes and getting them hurt.

IT: What’s it like to come back here to Indian Wells? 

SIMON: It’s always special to come back. This was home for 25 years. I feel very humbled to have been a part of it for that long, The team here is very special and I’m so happy to see them striving and doing really well.

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Simon Tour, Inc.

Simon Tour offers China guided, custom and festival tour packages to China and turns them into memorable vacations! We also provide: •Discount hotel bookings and car rentals. •Airline ticket reservations and tour guide services for cities located within mainland China. •Tour packages for families and individuals who do not want to join a tour group. Simon Tour has experienced tour coordinators and guides who speak Japanese, English and Spanish. Our staff has a minimum of 6 years experience working in the tourism industry and have mastered the vast knowledge of our Chinese history and culture. Everyone is required to take an exam every couple of years to work in the Chinese tourism industry. Only persons who pass this exam are qualified to work. No matter who you are, where you go, whether you are an independent traveler, a couple, family or a group, just select the Simon Tour package which fits you best. Let Simon Tour's tour guides show you the real China -- its unique culture and people. To be kept up-to-date on news and developments about Simon Tour, Inc., please click the "Following" button on linkedin.

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      Due to the global disruption caused by COVID19 Study Tours to China have been postponed until further notice.

Since 1999 Qigong Master Simon Blow has been personally leading unique Study Tours to China. We visit China not only to view the beautiful scenery, but mainly to absorb the ancient wisdom and contact the Qi at the sacred mountains. Travelling with a smaller, dedicated group allows us to move more freely and make morning Qigong practice an enjoyable way to start each day. We study with Qigong Grand Masters, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Professors, Daoist Priests and Buddhist Monks and receive formal training and certification. These tours are designed for the true Qigong enthusiast wanting to go to the source and for those wanting to increase their understanding of Qi energy and tour a fascinating country.

All tours have an element of study combined with cultural activities and sightseeing. We visit Traditional Chinese Medicine hospitals and universities; temples and monasteries; we will meet Masters of traditional painting and calligraphy and be entertained by local choir and music groups. We explore the countryside visiting the sacred mountains, following the ancient tradition practices. As we meditate together here with Grand Masters. The Qi will always be with you.

Climbing the Great Wall, feeling the energy at the temples and meeting the masters made for a perfect balance of tourism and Qigong learning. Our small group was such a delight, filled with love, support and heaps of fun. As Master Zhong (Purple Cloud Temple, Wudangsan) would describe ‘ a special bond

Ruth Mustey 2000

The 1999 tour with Simon Blow was by far the best of my three China tours led by Qigong masters. It had a more dedicated focus on meeting Qigong Masters who were happy to share their techniques. Simon provided a tour schedule that created more free time so we could also get a feel for local culture and lifestyle either together or individually

Peter Bagby 1999

My sincere gratitude goes to Master Simon Blow for making this journey possible. A short pilgrimage that has deepened my feelings for China and its people, a deeper understanding and appreciation for the magical gifts of Qigong. The whole experience was heart opening and enriching in all areas of my being – spiritually, emotionally, physically and mentally. Although every aspect of the tour was professionally provided with excellence, there are two things that will remain in my heart; they are the soul and essence of the people and Mt Wudang. The splendor and magical spirit of the mountain remains in my consciousness and presence. I find myself often returning back to Mt Wudang. My qigong practice is forever enriched!! I continue this path towards natural harmony and the cultivation of nothingness, the true essence of the Universe and our existence. It was great to travel with like minded people to share this experience. I’m thankful for all the love, laughter and fun they’ve brought into my life while we were away. I hope our worlds will collide once again

Jemma Rivera, Qigong/Yoga teacher, Sydney, Australia, April 2005

Dear Simon, I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed my trip to China with your group. I found it extremely balanced journey. WE had Qigong and meditation practice for part of the day and then forays into the ancient culture through visits to historic palaces and temples as well as demonstrations of traditional arts of silk making, closeness and jade factories. I loved every minute of it. I was particularly impressed with the flexibility you had built into the program which allowed us to follow our own interests and the care shown in enabling us to get the maxi um benefit out of our journey

Willie Beattie, artist and Qigong enthusiast, Alice Springs NT Australia, April 2006

Future China Qigong Tours All tours are personally led by Qigong Master Simon Blow

Qigong, pronounced Chi-Gung, is one of the great treasures of Chinese culture and a component of the holistic system of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Its origins can be traced for over five thousand years through the Daoist Tradition. Other healing arts from this tradition include acupuncture, feng shui, herbal medicine and therapeutic massage.

These unique tours of 10 to 20 people aim to take you to the source of these ancient healing arts, to the places where they were developed over thousands of years and are still practiced today.

Together with our tour partners YBL Travel and Tours in Melbourne and Cultural Interchange Beijing in China, we have created a tour package including return air fare visa application fee, all transfers and transport in China, twin-share accommodation in good quality hotels, three meals per day, entry to attractions, Qigong training and certification and much more.

People from all over Australia, the US, UK and Europe, from all walks of life have gained knowledge about this ancient culture and helped improve their understanding and quality of life.

Mr Jing Zhang from Cultural interchange Beijing has arranged our tours for many years and has become a good friend and is my Daoist brother. He picks us up at the airport, personally guiding us through China. We meet his friends and family giving us a unique insight to this fascinating country. He makes our journey very smooth, saying goodbye at the airport, until the next time we visit.

Wednesday 6th to Friday 22nd May 2020 DAOIST CULTURE – DA YAN WILD GOOSE QIGONG CHINA STUDY TOUR

Sorry Booked Out

Please click here for full itinerary and booking form  

During the 2020 tour we will gain a deep understanding of Daoism (Taoism). Since 2006 Qigong Master Simon Blow has built a special relationship with the Chang Chun – Eternal Spring Daoist Monastery in Wuhan, which is the governing temple of Daoism for Hubei Province. Simon is an initiated student of the Abbess Wu Cheng Zhen and a 25th Generation of Dragon Gate Daoism. We will spend four days studying meditation and Daoist scripture and philosophy with the Daoist Masters at the Monastery. Other healing arts that have originated from the Daoist tradition include Acupuncture, Acupressure Massage, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Feng Shui, Qigong and Taijiquan.

Da Yan Wild Goose Qigong is a classic and historical Qigong practise dating from the Jin Dynasty, 1700 years ago. It’s healing and spiritual legacy has been passed down though many generations. The foundation of the Da Yan Wild Goose Qigong system is the 1st 64 movement set. We will receive direct instruction and guidance from the linage family in the peaceful grounds of the Eternal Spring Monastery.

Another highlight of this training tour is a four day trip to Wudang Mountain; Wudangshan is one of the sacred Daoist Mountains of China and has a very special energy. We have been fortunate to visit this amazing place on many previous study tours.

In places we visit you will absorb the powerful Qi, practice Qigong and meet Grand Masters. This is a tour of a lifetime, please book your place early as there will be limited spaces available.

Wednesday 2nd to Saturday 19th September 2020 CHINA QIGONG STUDY TOUR

On this year’s tour we will spend time in the north eastern area of China in Shandong province on the Yellow Sea. Shandong province is known for its Daoist and Confucian heritage and as having one of the best dining experiences in China. These unique tours have an element of study combined with cultural activities and sightseeing. Travelling with a smaller, dedicated group allows us to move more freely and make morning Qigong practice an enjoyable way to start each day.

On the September 2020 tour, we will gain a deeper insight into the Chinese health cultivation exercises (Qigong) and meditation at the Shanghai Qigong Research Institute. We will spend three days at the Institute studying an ancient Qigong practise called Liu He Gong (Six Unity Exercise) harmonising the Body, Breath and Mind, leading to the cultivation of Essence, Energy and Spirit (Jing, Qi, Shen).

Our journey starts in the great city of Shanghai, and then we catch a fast train to Qufu in Shandong province. Qufu is the home town of Confucius one of the great philosophers. Visit the historical temples and gardens and learn more about Confucian philosophy with a lecture from a university professor. We will go the top of Taishan one of the most sacred mountains, where the sun first touches China and where all Emperors would receive the mandate from heaven to rule.

Also in Shandong province we will visit Five Finger Mountain, a Daoist Mountain and have discussions with the Abbott of the monastery about Daoist culture and ways of improving our quality of life. Other healing arts that have originated from the Daoist tradition include Acupuncture, Acupressure Massage, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Feng Shui, Qigong and Taijiquan While in Shandong we will have plenty of opportunities to sample the famous cuisine and have a cooking lesson.

Our journey ends in Beijing as we gaze in wonderment at the Imperial Palace in all its glory, visit the Great Wall and peer into history as you follow with your eyes the Great Wall disappearing into the distant peaks. Beijing is a rapidly expanding city, maintaining elements of its ancient past and emerging future.

Wednesday 1st to Saturday 18th September 2021 CHINA QIGONG STUDY TOUR

On this year’s unique tour we will spend time in the central area of China in Shaanxi province, known for its Daoist heritage and ancient history and also visit Xian the ancient capital of China and home of the First Emperor. We will delve further into understanding more about Daoist knowledge and culture with formal visits to Monasteries, Hospitals and Historical sites. Healing arts that have originated from the Daoist tradition include Acupuncture, Acupressure Massage, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Feng Shui, Qigong and Taijiquan.

On the September 2021 tour, we will gain a deeper insight into the Chinese health cultivation exercises (Qigong) and meditation at the Shanghai Qigong Research Institute. We will spend three days at the Institute studying an ancient Qigong practise called Liu He Gong (Six Unity Exercise) harmonising the Body, Breath and Mind, leading to the cultivation of Essence, Energy and Spirit (Jing, Qi ,Shen).

Our journey starts in the great city of Shanghai then we fly to Xian in Shaanxi province. We travel into the countryside to Lou Guan Tai which is the place where tradition says that Lao Zi, the great Daoist Master, composed the book, Dao De Jing. We will spend time in the sacred Daoist Mountains of Huashan, with plenty of time to climb these famous mountains, visit the Masters and practise Qigong and meditation.

Wednesday 7th to Saturday 24th September 2022 CHINA QIGONG STUDY TOUR

These unique tours have an element of study combined with cultural activities and sightseeing, travelling with a smaller, dedicated group allows us to move more freely and make morning Qigong practice an enjoyable way to start each day. On the 2022 China Qigong study tour we will gain a deeper insight into Traditional Chinese Medicine energy cultivation practises at the Shanghai Qigong Research Institute. We will spend three days at the Institute studying an ancient Qigong practise called Liu He Gong (Six Unity Exercise) harmonising the Body, Breath and Mind, leading to the cultivation of Essence, Energy and Spirit.

Our journey starts in the exciting city of Shanghai then we fly to the south west of China to Chengdu in the Sichuan Province. Then on to Green City Mountain Qing Cheng Shan where it’s a one hour walk up the historic forest path to the Heavenly Masters Cave, a Daoist Monastery nestled up in this beautiful and pristine natural mountain. We will spend two extraordinary nights in this remote place meditating and practising Qigong. There are many trails that lead to sacred healing areas and you will have time to explore on your own. Healing arts that have originated from the Daoist tradition include Acupuncture, Acupressure Massage, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Feng Shui, Qigong and Taijiquan. As Sichuan Province is the home of the Panda, we will also visit an extensive Panda Reserve.

We then travel by overnight train to Xian, the ancient capital from the Tang dynasty, and see the famous Terracotta Army as they still guard the First Emperor. Also in Xian we will have a formal visit to the Daoist Eight Immortal Monastery. Then onto Beijing for four full days, to experience the ancient capital of the Ming and Qing dynasties as well as see the current government capital. A memorable visit to the Forbidden City, the largest Imperial Palace every built, and a day trip to the Great Wall of China to peer into history as you follow with your eyes the Great Wall disappearing into the distant peaks.

To view previous years’ study tours please click on below links

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China’s Outbound Tourism is Changing, Female Travelers Are Leading the Way

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 10th, 2024 at 8:01 AM EDT

The evolving demographics of Chinese outbound travel shows a jump in younger female travelers. This shift will have important implications for how businesses approach their marketing strategies and the kind of products on offer.

Peden Doma Bhutia

A notable demographic shift, particularly among young upwardly mobile women, is driving the recent travel rebound in China . These travelers are researching and booking trips online, often spontaneously.

According to the most recent travel sentiment survey conducted by China Trading Desk, 62% of outbound travelers were female. Among them, almost 40% fell within the ages of 18 to 24, and a little over 27% were 25 to 29-year-olds.

According to China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, there were 3.6 million outbound trips taken during the Chinese New Year (from February 10-17).

Skift earlier cited a Dragon Trail research that expects China’s outbound tourism to reach 80% of pre-pandemic levels by 2024 end.

The five-day Labor Day holiday that begins from May 1 and the summer travel season are expected to further drive outbound tourism.

Women Power Drives Travel

Subramania Bhatt, founder and CEO of China Trading Desk, emphasized the emergence of a new cohort of digitally-savvy travelers seeking culturally enriching experiences. He highlighted that this demographic is predominantly young, female, and educated, with many opting for solo trips.

“These travelers exhibit a strong interest in independent travel, nature activities, and cultural experiences,” Bhatt told Skift.

He emphasized the need for travel businesses and destinations to better cater to these travelers by prioritizing safety, wellness, and support services.

Businesses should focus on promoting shopping and luxury experiences, along with unique local activities that appeal to the interests of young Chinese women travelers, he said.

Regarding travel preferences, the survey revealed that shopping ranked among the top five consumption items for outbound travel along with accommodation, air tickets and food. Over a quarter of travelers said they research shopping activities before purchasing air tickets, with this percentage rising to just under 70% among those aged 18 to 29.

Challenges of U.S. Travel

Analyzing destination popularity among Chinese travelers, Singapore maintains its lead position, followed by Thailand and South Korea.

During the first quarter of 2024, China contributed the highest number of visitor arrivals to Singapore, with nearly 724,000 entries. This marked a 481% year-on-year jump, reaching 75% of the visitor arrivals in 2019 for the same period.

In February, Singapore and China implemented a 30-day visa-free travel arrangement . Also, from March 1, Thailand and China entered into a mutual visa exemption agreement .

However, travel to the United States from China remains subdued . Bhatt predicts that Chinese travel to the U.S. may start to recover by the fourth quarter of 2024 or early 2025, barring any additional constraints.

“A variety of challenges, notably stringent visa regulations, geopolitical strains, and advisories from the Chinese government are holding back U.S. travel,” he said.

Recent incidents of professionals and students experiencing entry denials or interrogations upon arrival in the U.S. have led to official warnings about potential travel disruptions or cancellations, he said.

“Given the ongoing geopolitical complexities and the U.S. elections in November, prospects for immediate improvement in U.S.-China travel dynamics appear limited,” Bhatt said.

The survey listed government travel restrictions among the top factors influencing travel decisions.

Apps to Plan, Research and Pay

Chinese travelers are also booking trips faster and using digital platforms more. This suggests a trend towards spontaneity and flexibility driven by their digital skills, according to the survey.

They use popular travel apps like CTrip and Qunar, as well as social media platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu (China’s Instagram), to get information and plan trips. These platforms are also often used for organizing shopping excursions.

Bhatt stresses the importance of digital tools in travel and shopping, noting how they shape travel plans.

Friend recommendations strongly influence hotel bookings, followed by digital ads, highlighting the importance of social networks and targeted marketing in the hospitality industry.

For improving shopping experiences, travelers, especially those aged between 18 and 29 prefer using digital wallets and mobile payments. Alipay is the top payment method for outbound travel, with WeChat Pay also widely used among Chinese travelers.

The Daily Newsletter

Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

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Tags: alipay , asia monthly , china , china outbound , ctrip , digital payments , politics , singapore , social media , survey , visa waiver , wechat pay , women travelers

Photo credit: Chinese female travelers exhibit a strong interest in independent travel, nature activities, and cultural experiences. Kuan Fang / Unsplash

U.S. Department of the Treasury

Secretary of the treasury janet l. yellen to travel to the people’s republic of china.

WASHINGTON – From April 3-9, Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen will travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for bilateral meetings and other engagements.

Secretary Yellen’s visit to China will build on the intensive diplomacy she has engaged in to responsibly manage the bilateral economic relationship and advance American interests. Following initial meetings with the PRC’s new economic team last July in Beijing, Secretary Yellen met with her counterpart Vice Premier He Lifeng in San Francisco, California, in advance of President Biden’s meeting with President Xi. At Secretary Yellen and Vice Premier’s direction, both sides jointly launched Economic and Financial Working Groups , which report to the Secretary and Vice Premier, and which have met three times.

In an April 2023 speech , Secretary Yellen laid out three principles guiding America’s economic relationship with the PRC. These principals continue to guide our engagement today. The United States proceeds with confidence in our economic strength thanks to our historically strong recovery and the investments the Biden Administration is making in America’s productive capacity. In the context of this relationship, America first seeks to secure our national security interests along with those of our allies and to protect human rights. Second, we seek a healthy economic relationship with China that provides a level playing field for American workers and firms. Finally, we also seek to cooperate where we can on key bilateral and global priorities.

During her engagements in China, Secretary Yellen will advocate for American workers and businesses to ensure they are treated fairly, including by pressing Chinese counterparts on unfair trade practices and underscoring the global economic consequences of Chinese industrial overcapacity. Secretary Yellen will also work to expand bilateral cooperation on countering illicit finance, which can drive important progress on shared efforts against criminal activity such as drug trafficking and fraud. In China, the Secretary will also engage her counterparts on critical work that benefits both the United States and China, as well as the world, including work to bolster financial stability, address climate change, and resolve debt distress among developing nations.    

Trip Details

On Wednesday, April 3, Secretary Yellen will depart Washington, DC for Guangzhou, the People’s Republic of China. On Thursday, April 4, she will arrive in Guangzhou.

On Friday, April 5, in the morning, Secretary Yellen will hold a roundtable discussion with economic experts to discuss challenges and opportunities in the PRC’s economy. Secretary Yellen will then meet with Guangdong Governor Wang Weizhong. In the afternoon, Secretary Yellen will participate in an event with leading representatives of the American business community in China, hosted by AmCham China, and deliver remarks on the bilateral economic relationship. In the late afternoon, Secretary Yellen will begin extended bilateral meetings with Vice Premier He Lifeng.

On Saturday, April 6, Secretary Yellen will continue and then conclude a series of bilateral meetings with Vice Premier He. In the afternoon, Secretary Yellen will depart Guangzhou for Beijing.

On Sunday, April 7, Secretary Yellen will participate in a bilateral meeting with Premier Li Qiang. Later, Secretary Yellen will meet with Beijing Mayor Yin Yong. In the afternoon, Secretary Yellen will meet with students and professors at Peking University. In the evening, the Secretary will participate in a bilateral meeting with Finance Minister Lan Fo’an. While in Beijing, Secretary Yellen will also meet with leading Chinese economists.

On Monday, April 8, Secretary Yellen will meet with former Vice Premier Liu He of the People’s Republic of China. Later, she will hold a bilateral meeting with People’s Bank of China Governor Pan Gongsheng.

In the afternoon, Secretary Yellen will hold a press conference, during which she will deliver remarks discussing her trip to China. This press conference will be livestreamed here .

On Tuesday, April 9, Secretary Yellen will depart Beijing for Washington, DC. In the evening, she will arrive in Washington, DC.

More details will follow. 

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Saudi Arabia will host the women’s tennis WTA Finals for the next three years

FILE - WTA CEO Steve Simon sits for an interview during the WTA Finals tennis tournament in Fort Worth, Texas, Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022. Saudi Arabia will host the WTA Finals as part of a three-year deal announced Thursday, April 4, 2024, by the women’s professional tennis tour that will increase the prize money for this November’s season-ending championship to a record $15.25 million, a 70% increase from 2023. (AP Photo/Tim Heitman, File)

FILE - Former tennis players Martina Navratilova, left, and Chris Evert are introduced before the start of the women’s championship match at the U.S. Open tennis tournament in New York, Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010. Saudi Arabia will host the WTA Finals as part of a three-year deal announced Thursday, April 4, 2024, by the women’s professional tennis tour that will increase the prize money for this November’s season-ending championship to a record $15.25 million, a 70% increase from 2023. The event for the top eight singles players and top eight doubles teams will be held in Riyadh from 2024-26, part of a recent wave of investment by the kingdom in tennis and various sports, despite questions about LGBTQ+ and women’s rights there raised by Hall of Famers Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova and others. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

FILE - Iga Swiatek poses with her trophy after her victory over Jessica Pegula in the singles final of the WTA Finals tennis championships, in Cancun, Mexico, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. Saudi Arabia will host the WTA Finals as part of a three-year deal announced Thursday, April 4, 2024, by the women’s professional tennis tour that will increase the prize money for this November’s season-ending championship to a record $15.25 million, a 70% increase from 2023. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano, File)

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Saudi Arabia will host the WTA Finals as part of a three-year deal announced Thursday by the women’s professional tennis tour that will increase the prize money for this November’s season-ending championship to a record $15.25 million, a 70% increase from 2023.

The event for the top eight singles players and top eight doubles teams will be held in Riyadh from 2024-26, part of a recent wave of investment by the kingdom in tennis and various sports, despite questions about LGBTQ+ and women’s rights there raised by Hall of Famers Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova and others.

“We’re going into this eyes wide open that the investment in sport by Saudi certainly provokes strong views from people,” WTA Tour Chairman and CEO Steve Simon told The Associated Press. “We’ve met with Chris and Martina and listened to their concerns and we have shared their concerns through our stakeholders as well, without prejudice. We’ve also shared the concerns around women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights within the Kingdom of Saudi. Our focus is on how we develop women’s tennis for the benefit of everybody involved in the game. The reality of it is ... we are truly a global tour, a global business. We have players from over 90 nations now. We have over 90 events. ... We participate in many countries that have different cultures and values systems across the board.”

As for any concerns about Saudi Arabia that current players might have, Simon said: “We don’t plan to do any persuading. The players need to make their own choices, and we do believe that everyone who qualifies is going to want to play.”

Locations in Europe, North America and Asia also were considered as possible new sites for the WTA Finals, which have moved around to five cities over the past five editions after a deal to put the tournament in Shenzhen, China, through 2030 was disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic and concerns over the safety of retired Grand Slam doubles champion Peng Shuai , who accused a Chinese government official of rape.

The cities that hosted in 2022 (Fort Worth, Texas) and 2023 (Cancun, Mexico) were not revealed until September each year, and last November’s event was strongly criticized by players . Four-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek beat Jessica Pegula in last year’s title match ; U.S. Open champ Coco Gauff and Australian Open winner Aryna Sabalenka were among the other participants.

Simon said Riyadh was selected by the WTA in late December, but the details of the agreement were just completed.

“This partnership will build on our exposure to a market and a region whose impact on the sports industry is certainly growing rapidly,” Simon said. “We certainly expect that you’ll see more events coming there in the future. So at the end, we believe that the WTA should be a part of this development, versus being on the outside.”

Saudi Arabia’s Private Investment Fund (PIF) formed the LIV Golf tour and put money into soccer, for example, and the kingdom’s role in tennis has been rising. The ATP Tour moved its Next Gen Finals for leading 21-and-under players to Jedda in November; the PIF is the title sponsor for the men’s rankings; 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal recently became an ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Federation; he will join 24-time major champ Novak Djokovic and rising stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner at an exhibition event in Riyadh in October. There have been discussions about placing a top-tier Masters 1000 tournament in Saudi Arabia, too, part of a possible larger restructuring involving the WTA, ATP and the country.

Rights groups say women continue to face discrimination in most aspects of family life and homosexuality is a major taboo, as it is in much of the rest of the Middle East.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has enacted wide-ranging social reforms, including granting women the right to drive and largely dismantling male guardianship laws that had allowed husbands and male relatives to control many aspects of women’s lives. Men and women are still required to dress modestly, but the rules have been loosened and the once-feared religious police have been sidelined. Still, same-sex relations are punishable by death or flogging, though prosecutions are rare.

In an opinion piece published in The Washington Post in January, Evert and Navratilova urged the WTA to stay out of Saudi Arabia because, they wrote, staging the Finals there “would represent not progress, but significant regression” and asked whether “staging a Saudi crown-jewel tournament would involve players in an act of sportswashing merely for the sake of a cash influx.”

In response, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States , Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, said the two former athletes relied on “outdated stereotypes and western-centric views of our culture” and “turned their back on the very same women they have inspired and it is beyond disappointing.”

The ambassador joined the head of the Saudi Tennis Federation and other women in a video conference with current WTA athletes to “speak to the changes that are happening and to what still needs to be done within the region,” Simon said.

The WTA said the Finals prize money will help work to meet the tour’s pledge, made last year, to increase pay and put it in line with what men earn in tennis. The $15.25 million on offer from Nov. 2-9, 2024 — an amount set to increase in 2025 and 2026 — is up from last year’s $9 million and eclipses the event-high $14 million at Shenzhen in 2019.

Howard Fendrich has been the AP’s tennis writer since 2002. Find his stories here: https://apnews.com/author/howard-fendrich .

AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis