ATP Masters 1000 | Cincinnati Open: A Legacy Reimagined for the Future of Tennis

As one of the longest-running tennis events in the world, the Cincinnati Open holds a unique position in the sport’s history. Founded in 1899, it predates the World Series and the Indianapolis 500, and today remains the oldest U.S. tennis tournament still held in its original city. Over 125 years later, the tournament is undergoing its most ambitious transformation to date—both in format and infrastructure—marking a pivotal moment not just for Cincinnati, but for the global tennis calendar.

A Tournament Steeped in History

Originally played on clay courts at the Avondale Athletic Club, the tournament moved to the Cincinnati Tennis Club in 1903, where it remained for nearly 70 years. It wasn’t until 1979 that the event found its current home at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio—along with a switch from clay to hard courts. Throughout this evolution, the tournament has continuously grown in stature.

What had once been an intermittent host to women’s events was formally unified in 2011, becoming a joint ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 competition. In 2024, the tournament re-embraced its heritage, dropping the “Western & Southern Open” title to once again become the Cincinnati Open—a nod to its 125-year legacy.

A Major Expansion in 2025

The 2025 edition, scheduled from August 5 to 18, represents a strategic leap forward. The tournament expands from nine to fourteen days, joining Indian Wells, Miami, and Madrid in offering an extended two-week format. The men’s and women’s singles draws will each expand from 56 to 96 players, creating more opportunities for rising stars and giving fans a deeper slate of matchups.

Qualifying rounds will take place August 5–6, with the main draw beginning on August 7. Top seeds are granted first-round byes and will enter the fray by August 9 or 10. In doubles, the women’s draw starts on August 7, with the men’s beginning August 11. Both finals are slated for August 17, leading into the singles finals on August 18.

This expansion is backed by a $260 million venue redevelopment, which will double the facility’s footprint. New additions include a six-court indoor complex, pickleball and padel courts, and a 55,000-square-foot clubhouse, setting a new standard for a non-Grand Slam event.

A Venue Designed for Fans and Players

The Lindner Family Tennis Center stands out for its four permanent stadiums, including an 11,400-seat Center Court and a 5,000-seat Grandstand. This architectural setup—rare outside of the majors—allows the tournament to accommodate large crowds and provide quality viewing experiences throughout the grounds.

The 2025 renovations will significantly enhance fan engagement. A new central pavilion with shaded areas and large video boards will serve as a social and entertainment hub. The Fan Lawn will host live music and games, while increased access to practice courts will make player-fan interactions more frequent and organic. The tournament’s intimate design, with players walking among spectators between matches, has always set it apart—and that identity will be preserved, even as the venue scales up.

Giving Back: A Charitable Model

Beyond the courts, the Cincinnati Open has made substantial contributions to the community. Since 1974, the tournament has donated over $12 million to local causes. More than $9 million has gone to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for cancer care, while over $1.5 million has supported the UC Health Cancer Center. Additionally, over $1 million has funded youth tennis programs in under-resourced communities.

As a nonprofit-run tournament, all net proceeds are invested back into the region—making the Cincinnati Open not just a sports event, but a philanthropic engine.

Champions, Legends, and Records

The 2024 edition saw Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka claim the men’s and women’s singles titles, respectively. In doubles, Marcelo Arévalo/Mate Pavić and Asia Muhammad/Erin Routliffe took home the trophies. The event has also been a career landmark for many greats. Roger Federer remains its most decorated champion with seven titles, while Novak Djokovic holds three—including his career Golden Masters clinch in 2018.

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A Model for Tennis Tournaments

The Cincinnati Open serves as a blueprint for how tradition and transformation can co-exist in tennis. Its roots run deep, but its eye is firmly on the future—with new facilities, expanded competition, and a renewed focus on inclusivity and engagement. Yet, challenges remain. Addressing gender disparities, managing player workloads, and competing with high-paying rivals will be essential for long-term relevance.

As the third-largest tennis event in the United States, behind only the US Open and Indian Wells, Cincinnati is setting the standard for what a modern Masters-level tournament can look like—community-driven, commercially resilient, and fan-centered.

With its extended format, upgraded experience, and rich history, the Cincinnati Open 2025 offers fans a chance to be part of something truly special. Whether you’re a lifelong tennis follower or a first-time attendee, this year’s tournament promises both thrilling competition and meaningful connection. Don’t miss your chance to witness tennis history in the making—plan your visit to the Cincinnati Open this August.