Will the Six Kings Slam go ahead? Withdrawal of one player could end the richest event in tennis

The upcoming Six Kings Slam exhibition in Riyadh faces major uncertainty following a fatal militant attack at King Khalid International Airport. Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz, Alex de Minaur, and Learner Tien are scheduled to participate in the lucrative Saudi event starting October 21, 2026. However, airport closures and security concerns have cast substantial doubt on player participation.

Former world No. 1 Andy Roddick strongly criticized traveling to the exhibition, stating he would refuse to participate despite the $1.5 million appearance fee. Camps for top players including Alcaraz, Djokovic, and Zverev have not yet confirmed if they will travel amidst international travel warnings and heightened regional tensions.