Riyadh has emerged as the epicenter of a sporting revolution as the prestigious PIF Saudi Ladies International commences at Riyadh Golf Club, bringing together world-class athletes for a groundbreaking $5 million championship. This landmark event, featuring equal prize money to its male counterpart, represents a transformative moment for women’s golf while positioning Saudi Arabia as an emerging powerhouse in global sports tourism.
The tournament transcends conventional athletic competition by integrating ambitious developmental initiatives. Through the Sustained Futures program, approximately 450 young adults participate in specialized workshops designed to increase female and youth engagement in sports. The event’s comprehensive approach includes grassroots clinics where families and children experience golf firsthand, breaking down traditional barriers to participation across the Middle East.
Olympic pioneers and sports ambassadors including Kariman Abuljadayel, Dunya Abutaleb, Lama Al Fozan, and Razan Al-Ajmi headline the influential WIMENA (Women in the Middle East and North Africa) panel discussions. These conversations, part of the “Change with Conversation” initiative, create leadership pathways for women in both sports and tourism sectors, reflecting the region’s commitment to gender empowerment through athletic excellence.
Golf Saudi Ambassador Alison Lee emphasized the event’s profound community impact: “Witnessing families actively engaging with golf during our clinics demonstrates the tournament’s powerful influence. Our mission remains inspiring the next generation of regional players while showcasing how disciplined athletic development can create meaningful opportunities.”
World No. 5 Charley Hull and Major champion Patty Tavatanakit lead the international competitors, demonstrating elite performance while serving as role models for aspiring athletes. The interactive GO GOLF program further enhances spectator experience by offering professional-led clinics and driving range sessions, transforming attendees from passive observers into active participants.
Operating under the banner “Made for the Future,” the championship embodies Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision combining sporting excellence with sustainable tourism, modern luxury, and cultural heritage. By establishing Riyadh as the high-performance hub for the Saudi National Team, the event creates a clear pathway from grassroots programs to global competition, ensuring lasting impact beyond the tournament itself.