Cincinnati’s Tennis Commitment: Western & Southern Open Here to Stay

Tennis enthusiasts around the world can put any relocation rumors to rest. Cincinnati will continue to play host to one of the most revered tournaments on the tennis calendar, the Western & Southern Open.

To quash any lingering doubts about the tournament’s location, two of the sport’s brightest stars, Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff, stepped into the limelight. Both champions of the 2023 edition, they jointly announced that this renowned event would remain anchored at the Lindner Family Tennis Center. Not just for its upcoming monumental 125th anniversary in 2024, but for many years thereafter.

The two champions headlined a promotional video. Djokovic, with his trademark smile, reminisced,

“I’ve won three of your trophies.”

He further expressed his eagerness, saying,

“I would love to win a fourth one in August.”

Gauff, on the other hand, has her eyes set on defending her title. She conveyed her sentiments about the city, saying,

“Cincinnati will forever be special to me.”

Behind the Decision

Despite persistent rumors about a potential shift post the 2023 edition, several factors contributed to the decision to stay put. Notable among these was a keen interest from Beemok Capital, helmed by Cincinnati and Charleston owner Ben Navarro. Navarro, also the father of WTA player Emma Navarro, was reportedly in the midst of plans to invest a staggering $400 million in a venue located in Charlotte, North Carolina.

However, the commitment to Cincinnati was unwavering. As a representative from Beemok Capital elaborated:

“Our process in other cities follows the same course we have taken in Greater Cincinnati, to both present the benefits of the tournament to the local community as well as evaluate the opportunities and constraints the region presents.” – Beemok Capital

Future Investments

With the tournament’s location confirmed, significant improvements are in the pipeline for the Lindner Family Tennis Center. A whopping $200 million has been earmarked to upgrade the facility. This center, an iconic part of the tennis landscape since 1979, welcomed over 200,000 ardent fans in 2023 alone.

Expanding the Horizon

The Western & Southern Open isn’t just staying; it’s evolving. In 2025, the tournament is set to follow in the footsteps of other premier events like the Mutua Madrid Open and Internazionali BNL d’Italia. It will extend to span over two weeks, giving fans even more exhilarating tennis action.

Western & Southern Open Champions

The Western & Southern Open, held annually in Cincinnati, boasts a rich history of champions. Both the ATP and WTA circuits have seen some of the most elite players etch their names into the tournament’s annals. Here’s a breakdown of the champions over the years:

WTA Cincinnati Winners

ATP Cincinnati Winners

The Western & Southern Open’s continued presence in Cincinnati is not just a testament to the city’s rich tennis legacy but also a nod to the fans, players, and officials who have made the tournament the success story it is today.

For the Midwest tennis community, it’s not just about retaining a prestigious event. It’s about celebrating the past, reveling in the present, and shaping a promising future for the sport they dearly love.