ATP Masters 1000 | Rolex Shanghai Masters: Asia’s Premier Tennis Stage Returns with Renewed Prestige

The Rolex Shanghai Masters, Asia’s flagship ATP Masters 1000 tournament, has reemerged as a powerful symbol of tennis excellence and regional ambition. After a four-year hiatus, the event returned in 2024 and is set to continue building momentum in 2025. Spanning twelve days of world-class tennis, luxury hospitality, and growing global relevance, the tournament reflects Shanghai’s position as a sporting and cultural powerhouse in the Asia-Pacific.

A Unique Place in the ATP Landscape

Launched in 2009 as a replacement for the Hamburg Masters, the Shanghai Masters holds the distinction of being the only ATP Masters 1000 event in the Asia-Pacific. In 2010, Rolex’s sponsorship elevated the event’s profile, officially rebranding it as the Rolex Shanghai Masters and aligning it with the watchmaker’s prestigious roster of tennis partnerships.

Following a four-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament resumed in 2024, running from September 30 to October 13. The 2025 edition is tentatively scheduled for October 1–13, strategically timed with China’s National Day holiday to maximize domestic and international attendance.

A World-Class Venue with Architectural Distinction

The tournament takes place at the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena in Minhang District, Shanghai. This state-of-the-art facility is known for its dramatic magnolia-shaped retractable roof—an homage to the city’s official flower.

• Center Court seating for 13,800 spectators
  
• Grandstand Court accommodating 5,000 attendees
  
• Union Pay Court with 1,500 seats
  
• 22 outdoor courts used for practice sessions and early-round matches

All competition is held on DecoTurf outdoor hard courts, identical to those at the US Open, ensuring familiarity for top players.

Enhancing the Fan Experience

The tournament is designed for ease and enjoyment, with numerous features that cater to both first-time visitors and seasoned tennis fans.

• Free shuttles operate from Xinzhuang Station, with a 45-minute transit time to the venue.
  
• Hotel-arranged taxis are also available.
  
• On-site attractions include Rolex boutiques, shaded lounges, and an international food court.

One of the more endearing aspects of the fan experience is the Player Escort Program, where children from Marriott Bonvoy families walk players onto the court—an experience blending elite sport with community engagement.

With October temperatures averaging 73°F (23°C), a light jacket is typically sufficient for the duration of the tournament.

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Economic and Cultural Impact

Beyond the matches, the Rolex Shanghai Masters makes a substantial impact on Shanghai’s tourism and tennis infrastructure. The tournament consistently draws over 200,000 spectators, leveraging the city’s global connectivity and hospitality ecosystem.

Winners receive a “Magnolia Roof” trophy, inspired by the venue’s architecture and produced by Royal Selangor Pewter, with champions receiving a replica to keep. Moreover, a portion of the tournament’s proceeds helps fund grassroots tennis programs across Asia, aligning with the ATP’s long-term development goals for the region.

The Rolex Shanghai Masters is more than just a tennis tournament—it’s a statement of Shanghai’s rising stature in the world of international sport. With its world-class infrastructure, luxurious hospitality offerings, and commitment to regional tennis development, the event stands as a pillar of the ATP calendar in Asia. As it gears up for the 2025 edition, all eyes will once again turn to Shanghai for twelve days of hard-court drama, cultural celebration, and unforgettable athletic achievement.

Plan ahead with our team of experts—premium tickets, curated experiences, and hotel bundles are expected to sell out quickly. Whether you’re a devoted fan or a luxury traveler, the Rolex Shanghai Masters is a destination worth circling on your tennis calendar.