Six Kings Slam Faces Riyadh Security Concerns After Airport Attack

The 2026 Six Kings Slam is facing security concerns in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, after attacks at King Khalid International Airport raised questions about the exhibition's schedule, travel plans and safety arrangements for players, teams and spectators.

According to tennis365.com, the event is scheduled for October 21-24 at ANB Arena in Riyadh and features Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev. Organizers have not announced any postponement, relocation or cancellation.

Reports from tennis365.com and tennisuptodate.com said the airport attack caused flight disruptions after militants struck the facility, with the incident resulting in deaths and injuries. The situation has created uncertainty for international travel ahead of the tournament.

The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack and issued a warning affecting air travel in Saudi Arabia.

"They are potential targets and sites for operations by our forces," said the Houthis.

Tennisuptodate.com reported that the Six Kings Slam remains on the calendar despite the security concerns. The exhibition is part of Riyadh's sports program and brings together six leading players in a knockout format.

The tournament field has already changed after Jannik Sinner withdrew because of a knee injury, ending his 2026 season early. Learner Tien replaced him in the lineup, joining Alcaraz, Djokovic, Zverev, Taylor Fritz and Alex de Minaur.

According to tennis365.com, Sinner won the first two editions of the event in 2024 and 2025, earning a total of $12 million across those tournaments. Each participant is guaranteed a $1.5 million appearance fee, while the champion receives an additional $4.5 million.

Organizers are also monitoring player availability after De Minaur retired from the China Open final with an adductor injury and was scheduled for further assessment. The Australian had not withdrawn from the Six Kings Slam at the time of the reports.

Alexander Zverev is also preparing for the event while competing at the Shanghai Masters. Reports from lastwordonsports.com and sundayguardianlive.com said Zverev entered his Shanghai third-round match against Quentin Halys with strong recent form, including a 58-15 record in 2026 according to Sunday Guardian Live.