The 2025 WTA Finals photoshoot recently took place at the Bab AlSaad Resort in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, featuring top players like Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, and Amanda Anisimova. While the photos from the session have been released, some fans are expressing their boredom with the repetitive nature of these shoots year after year.
Criticism of the photoshoot has also come from Serena Williams’ former coach, Rennae Stubbs, who agreed with Eliza Westcoat’s assessment that the photoshoot missed a significant media opportunity for the WTA. Westcoat highlighted the need for a more aspirational and high-end approach, suggesting that the photos should reflect the players as strong, independent sportswomen.
In response to the critique, Stubbs simply wrote, “Agreed,” indicating her support for the need to elevate the creativity and portrayal of the players in these photoshoots. Westcoat specifically mentioned the absence of a trophy in the shoot, which could have symbolized the players’ status as elite athletes rather than damsels in distress waiting for rescue.
The photoshoot, conducted by photographer Yumna AlâArashi, saw the players adorned in high-fashion gowns and luxury jewelry instead of their usual sportswear. Coco Gauff, in a custom dress from Miu Miu, shared her excitement about the opportunity to showcase their personalities and style in a different light.
Among the other players, World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka wore Alberta Ferretti, while Iga ĆwiÄ tek donned a custom gown by Saudi brand Lurline. The tournament will feature the top eight WTA-ranked players, competing in a round-robin format before advancing to the semifinals.
As the WTA Finals kick off, the focus remains on the players and their performances on the court. It will be interesting to see how these talented athletes fare in the competition and whether the photoshoot controversy will have any impact on the tournament’s success.
