WTA chief denies money a factor in Dubai row

By Pritha Sarkar

LONDON (Reuters) - WTA chief Larry Scott said money was not a factor in allowing this week''s Dubai Championships women''s tournament, which is at the center of a political storm, to go ahead as planned.

Top Israeli player Shahar Peer had been due to compete but she was denied a visa into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and had to forfeit her place.

Although the UAE''s stand has angered the tennis community, the WTA allowed the lucrative $2 million event to be staged.

Observers felt the WTA''s decision was driven by the knowledge many Middle Eastern countries invest heavily in the sport but Scott said the governing body of women''s tennis gave it the green light for logistical reasons.

"That (money) does not factor into it. This is an issue related to principles, related to fairness to our athletes and being sensitive to what the affected player wants," Scott told Reuters in a telephone interview.

"Practically speaking, our athletes were already there ready to play ... and we did not really have much time to react to the situation. Just because Shahar was penalized she did not want to see all her fellow players penalized.

"That''s what went into the decision to let this tournament carry on this year. It will be clear this is an issue of principle that rises above any economic concerns or issues and that will be clear in the way we handle this.

"I don''t want anyone to misinterpret that ... we let the tournament carry on with any sense of complacency or acceptance of this issue. Shahar certainly expects us to deal with it very clearly and firmly for the future which we will.

"Our actions will be clear in the future and we will be happy to be judged by that."

While the UAE has been condemned by tennis players and officials for their stance against Peer, pressure was mounting for tennis authorities to take action.

The furor is unlikely to die down anytime soon as the men''s Dubai tournament, which begins next Monday, has Israel''s Andy Ram in the doubles draw.

REALITY CHECK

The ATP, which governs men''s tennis, said it would review the event''s status once Ram is notified about his visa application.

"I had hoped in this day and age that sporting principles would be recognized as separate from politics and this is a big step back," said Scott.

"It''s a big step back for the region and a reality check for everyone that political influences will try to be imposed on sports from time to time.  Continued...