“I wouldn’t get close to it” – Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev gave a serious warning about the Riyadh event.
Former US Open winner and well-known tennis commentator Andy Roddick has given a serious warning to players like Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, and Novak Djokovic ahead of the Six Kings Slam in October.
The tournament is planned for October 21-24 at the Anb Arena in Riyadh, but a terrible attack at King Khalid International Airport last Saturday has put the event at risk.
The attack caused at least 13 deaths and injured around 300 people, leading to flight diversions and major safety concerns.
Jannik Sinner, the two-time defending champ, is set to start the competition with quarter-final matches on October 21. Alcaraz and Djokovic get direct spots in the semi-finals, while Zverev is expected to play Taylor Fritz first, then possibly face Alcaraz.
Before the tournament, Roddick shared his strong opinion with his Served podcast co-host about players like Alcaraz, Djokovic, Zverev, Fritz, Learner Tien, and Alex de Minaur.
“It’s really sad what’s going on in the world right now, and the tough situation we’re in,” said Roddick. “If I were part of this, I wouldn’t even think about going. With everything happening—like the Fly Dubai incident and what happened with Daniil Medvedev in Dubai earlier this year—it’s just not worth the risk.”
He was referring to when Medvedev got stuck in Dubai during similar tensions.
Roddick added, “I know the players are getting paid well, but playing in an exhibition isn’t the same as a Grand Slam. It won’t change anyone’s life. I wouldn’t risk it just for extra money. It’s just not worth it.”
His co-host showed sympathy for the people of Saudi Arabia, who are caught in this difficult situation, and Roddick agreed with him.
The Six Kings Slam will be shown on Netflix and is now in its third year after Sinner won the first two exhibitions. No official word has been given on whether it will go ahead, but since there was no cancellation announced, it seems likely it will happen.
Sadly, a 13th victim passed away from the airport attack on Sunday. This is part of the ongoing violence from the civil war in Yemen, where the Saudi-backed government is fighting the Iran-backed Houthis.
This conflict has lasted 12 years, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths and a major humanitarian crisis.
The Houthis have warned against using Saudi airports, calling them “potential targets.” Roddick’s co-host pointed out, “People are getting hurt at the airport the players would fly into?” and Roddick stood firm in his advice to the competitors to stay away.