Charlotte Secures Hosting Rights for WTA Finals, Boosting North Carolina’s Global Sports Profile
Raleigh, N.C.
In a significant development for the sports scene in North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein has confirmed that Charlotte will host the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Finals for three consecutive years from 2027 to 2029. This major event is supported by a $14.4 million grant from the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund (MEGA) managed by the N.C. Department of Commerce. The financial boost will aid the Charlotte Sports Foundation, alongside the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and local leaders, in organizing the prestigious tournament. Beyond hosting the finals, Charlotte is set to become the new global headquarters for the WTA and will also host a WTA 500 event after 2029.
“North Carolina is proud to welcome the WTA headquarters and the WTA Finals to Charlotte,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This premier international organization and event will bring visitors to our state, support local businesses, and give North Carolina an opportunity to showcase all that we have to offer to a global audience. I appreciate the Charlotte Sports Foundation and our local partners for their work to bring this event to our state. The WTA is game, the plans are set, and it’s going to be a perfect match.”
The inaugural event in 2027 is scheduled from November 10-14 at Charlotte’s Spectrum Center, featuring the world’s top eight singles players and doubles teams. This move places North Carolina prominently on the international sports map.
Aside from the championship matches, the event will integrate numerous activities for local residents, including practice sessions, fan engagement opportunities, and meeting spaces at the Charlotte Convention Center. The WTA Finals are expected to attract 80,000 spectators, contributing tens of millions of dollars to the regional economy.
“Bringing the Women’s Tennis Association Finals to Charlotte is a significant win for North Carolina,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Hosting an event of this caliber reflects the strength of our state’s sports and tourism industries and our ability to compete for major events.”
In 2023, North Carolina played host to eight major events spanning various sports, including golf, motorsports, and pickleball. Charlotte notably welcomed the World Cup Soccer Send-Off Game and the Major League Soccer All-Star Game this summer, underscoring its growing reputation as a sports hub.
The MEGA Fund plays a pivotal role in enhancing North Carolina’s competitiveness in attracting significant sports, entertainment, and cultural events. By investing in such opportunities, the fund aims to elevate the state’s visibility and foster economic and tourism development. To date, the MEGA Fund has allocated $39.8 million in grants for events statewide.
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