WTA chief says money not a factor in Dubai row

LONDON: WTA chief Larry Scott said money was not a factor in allowing this week's Dubai Championships women's tournament, which is at the centre of a political storm, to go ahead as planned.

Top Israeli player Shahar Peer had been due to compete but she was denied a visa into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and had to forfeit her place.

Although the UAE's stand has angered the tennis community, the WTA allowed the lucrative $2 million event to be staged.