The Six Kings Slam tennis tournament in Saudi Arabia will now take place in December. Organizers changed the dates amid security concerns following attacks in Riyadh. Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic is among the players affected by the decision.
The event was set to run from October 21 to 24. Instead, organizers have moved the tournament to December 27–30, 2026.
The decision follows attacks in the Saudi capital. Reports also described an attack on King Khalid International Airport, which raised concerns about travel and security.
Novak Djokovic Among Tennis Stars Awaiting New Dates
The Six Kings Slam will feature some of the biggest names in men’s tennis.
Alongside Djokovic, the lineup includes Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev and Taylor Fritz. Alex de Minaur and Learner Tien are also on the list.
Jannik Sinner, who won the tournament in 2024 and 2025, had already pulled out because of an injury. Tien took his place in the lineup.
The event is not part of the official ATP Tour. Still, it attracts leading players with its large prize fund.
Players can earn millions of dollars through appearance fees and prizes. As a result, the competition has become a major event on the tennis calendar.
Netflix also plans to broadcast the tournament to viewers around the world.
Organizers Move Six Kings Slam to December
Riyadh Season organizes the tournament. In its announcement, the organization pointed to planning and travel challenges.
The organizers said they reviewed several factors before choosing the new dates. They also considered the experience of players and spectators.
Meanwhile, recent attacks in Riyadh have raised security concerns across the region.
International reports linked the change to the security situation in Saudi Arabia. However, the organizers did not directly name the attacks as the reason for the delay.
The new dates may also affect players’ plans. Late December is a period when many tennis stars prepare for the next season.
For Djokovic, the change means adjusting his schedule once again. The Serbian player remains one of the main attractions at the event.
The Six Kings Slam will now run from December 27 to 30 in Riyadh. Organizers plan to continue preparations for the tournament.
