AMNESTY International has urged Rafael Nadal to use his new role as ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Federation (STF) as a platform to speak out on human rights.
Nadal, 37, has taken up the role as part of the STF’s “long-term commitment to help grow the sport and inspire a new generation of athletes” in the Gulf kingdom.
The Spaniard, a 22-time Grand Slam winner, said he wanted to help the sport’s continued development across the world — and that “in Saudi there is real potential.”
As Saudi Arabia is hailed abroad for its ‘reforms,’ the reality for women inside the kingdom grows ever more repressive. On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, MARYAM ALDOSSARI argues it is time to stop applauding the illusion – and start listening to the women the state works hardest to silence



