Serving Looks
If you’ve ever stepped foot on the grounds of the Cincinnati Open, you already know the tennis is elite. But now, the experience finally matches it.
If you haven’t been to the Cincinnati Open in a few years - or ever - this is the year. The $260 million transformation is complete, and the difference is immediately clear from the moment you walk in. It’s like the tennis gods took a Sharpie to the old blueprints and said, “Let’s double it.”
And that’s exactly what they did. The footprint is twice as big, with 31 courts, more shade, more seating, more trees and more ways to enjoy elite-level tennis without ever stepping foot in your assigned seat.
This is the same tournament that’s been around since 1899, second only to the US Open in longevity. But this year, it feels different, and not just because it now stretches over two weeks with 324 matches.
It’s the vibe. The food. The thoughtful design. How easy it is to get a drink, find a seat in the shade, or let your kids try a speed serve while you catch a live interview in the new Pavilion. And the people watching? NEXT LEVEL. It feels like the future of tennis, with everything that tennis fans already loved about the place.
What’s New (and Worth the Hype):
The Pavilion – This central gathering spot is the tournament’s new heartbeat. A massive video screen, Adirondack chairs, brand activations (free macaron ice cream sandwiches from Kroger!), and a Fifth Third VIP lounge make it more than a pass-through space — it’s a destination.
The Commons – You probably used to call it the food court. But with the new name comes so much more. Tons more seating and shade, 13 restaurants and a chef demo or two thrown in for good measure.
Champions Court – A brand-new sunken stadium, just inside the South entrance, where fans feel closer than ever to the action. And yes, this comes free with your Center Court ticket,
Food & Drink Upgrades – From Jeff Ruby’s steaks to Bibibop bowls, Lobsta Bakes to Lucius Q BBQ, the culinary scene is more Cincinnati than ever. Bonus: You can wash it all down with a signature Ace Paloma.
Kids Zone & Gaming Zone – Whether they’re trying mini courts or Mario Tennis, this isn’t just a place to drag the kids along — it’s a place to let them lead. Check out the Cincinnati Fear while you’re out there! The Queen City’s professional esports team will be there throughout the tournament letting kids (and adults) try their hand at gaming.
Practice Courts, Reimagined – Fans now have more bleachers and new elevated platforms to watch the best in the world warm up just feet away.
One area you won’t be able to see – at least inside – is the new players-only Clubhouse, the crown jewel of the Cincinnati Open’s player amenities. This two-story, 56,000 square feet facility includes indoor and outdoor lounges, a players-only restaurant, a warm-up lawn and upgraded locker rooms that rival the Grand Slams. It’s a full-service retreat designed for peak performance and recovery, complete with multiple gyms, massage rooms, mental health spaces and cold plunge tubs.
It’s Not Just Tennis — It’s a Full-On Experience
Organizers say the average fan spends eight hours at the tournament. That’s easy to do with all these non-tennis things to do:
Watch live tapings of Tennis Channel’s coverage at the brand-new Performance Center studio
Snap a selfie at the new Cincinnati Open sign or Venus Gillette photo bus
Take a fan personality quiz to map out your day (Relaxer? Socialite? Jock?)
Shop top-tier merch, sunglasses, and gear at the expanded tournament store and pop-up shops
Cool off at misting stations or juice your phone with a portable charger, courtesy of Fifth Third.
Enjoy more than 42,000 locally grown annuals that truly create the park-like setting that was the goal of architects and designers
The aforementioned people watching.
This tournament has been a favorite for years, but even the most veteran of tennis fans will be amazed at the difference, both in the physical transformation and in the world-class feel the moment you step inside. Everything that Cincinnati has loved about the tournament is still here - just bigger, better, and built to impress on an international stage.
The Cincinnati Open runs through Aug. 18 at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason.