How is Saudi Arabia investing in sports and what concerns does this raise?

Saudi Arabia, an oil-rich nation, has aggressively invested in major sports by hosting the WTA finals, acquiring Newcastle United soccer club, and launching LIV Golf. These high-profile sporting initiatives represent a form of new sports diplomacy for the kingdom. However, these investments have raised significant concerns from athletes and human rights organizations. Critics accuse Saudi Arabia of 'sports washing' - deliberately using high-profile sporting events to improve their international image and reputation while potentially diverting attention from human rights issues in the country.