The GIST

PIF doubles down on WTA investment by sponsoring maternity benefits

Yesterday, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) built on its expansive partnership with the WTA by launching the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program, the first in women’s sports history to offer paid maternity benefits to self-employed athletes.

March 07, 2025

World No. 19 Madison Keys capture first Grand Slam at the 2025 Australian Open, No. 1 Jannik Sinner repeats as men’s champion

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Tennis’ first Grand Slam champions of the year have been crowned, with a new winner in the women’s game and a repeat trophy hoister on the men’s side. Take a bow.

January 27, 2025

No. 19 Madison Keys to face No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in Australian Open final, No. 7 Novak Djokovic retires in semis to end bid for 25th Grand Slam title

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January 24, 2025

No. 19 Madison Keys advances to seventh Grand Slam semi

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January 22, 2025

Unexpected upsets across the opening round of the Australian Open

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It’s only the second round at the Australian Open (tennis’ first Grand Slam of the season), but headlines are already popping Down Under, from unexpected upsets to a Brazilian teen making a splash in his first career Slam.

January 15, 2025

NY investment firm Blue Owl expands winning US Open strategy to all four Grand Slams

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Yesterday, NYC–based investment firm Blue Owl Capital built on its unique US Open advertising strategy with a marquee tennis sponsorship spanning all four Grand Slams. The company will focus on partnering with lower-ranked challengers to optimize its bets for outsized ROI, while also leveling the endorsement playing field court.

January 13, 2025

A 2025 Australian Open preview

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The Australian Open — tennis’ first Grand Slam of the year — began in Melbourne last night, so today, we’re serving up all you need to know as the tourney continues this morning. Start practicing your Aussie slang and accent, and walkabout through this year’s preview.

January 12, 2025

Sports Business

WTA Ventures reports 24% revenue growth since 2023 launch

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December 04, 2024

Last March, the WTA established WTA Ventures, a unique strategic partnership with CVC Capital Partners to create a commercial branch of the women’s tennis tour dedicated to boosting revenue and ROI for the tour. And now the results are in: WTA Ventures increased its revenue by 24% in its first year, setting a new record for the tour.

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The GIST of It Podcast

Ep #455

Saquon Barkley plays 18 with President Trump

April 29, 2025

Listen on Apple Music Listen on Spotify

Saquon Barkley plays 18 with President Trump

Mr. Barkley goes to Washington.

But before he visited the White House yesterday to celebrate the Philadelphia Eagles 2025 Super Bowl win, superstar running back Saquon Barkley spent some one-on-one time with President Donald Trump, raising the eyebrows of many football fans — especially after his Super Bowl MVP teammate Jalen Hurts didn’t make the trip at all.

On today’s episode of The GIST of It, co-hosts Ellen Hyslop and Steph Rotz share their reactions to Barkley’s surprising afternoon with the polarizing president and add crucial context to the recent history of championship teams visiting 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Football is always top of mind.