Cincinnati Open Levels Up… And Fans Are Loving It

By Grant Thompson

What happens when a tennis tournament combines a resort-like experience while keeping that fun, summer-fair energy? You get the revitalized Cincinnati Open — a historic event reimagined by a $260 million transformation, completed just in time for the 2025 edition.

The moment fans walk through the gates, it is impossible to miss. From wide-open concrete walkways to the vibrant Champions Court (a sunken stadium à la Pietrangeli court in Rome) and a sleek new player hub — The Clubhouse — and much more, every inch of the Lindner Family Tennis Center has been elevated.

Even the smallest details — like bright, blooming flowers stretched across the grounds — have fans grabbing their cameras.

“I feel like I’m at a luxury hotel celebrating vacation.”

For Greenwood, Indiana natives Dan Leiter and Haley Burgh, this year marks their third annual daddy-daughter trip to the Cincinnati Open. Haley started the tradition by purchasing her father tickets for Christmas and they have continued to make the two-hour drive each year, citing the perfect timing before Haley returns to college away from their home state. Like many fans returning this week, they are surprised by the upgrades.

“I feel like I’m at a luxury hotel celebrating vacation,” said Burgh. “I really like what they’ve done with the new renovations. I really like the layout. Everything’s really nice and clean, there’s also lots of different food options, live music. When I walked in, I felt like it was a lot more open and pristine than in past years.”

The southern end of the property features 10 new practice courts (Courts 22-31), where WTA No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and ATP No. 1 Jannik Sinner held practice sessions on Tuesday.

“You get all the big players, but in a smaller feel here.”

Even with the fresh upgrades, the Cincinnati Open has not lost its signature charm of offering fans an up-close view of the sport’s biggest names. It is a staple that Loveland, Ohio resident Rebecca has cherished throughout her 13 years attending the tournament, a journey that started alongside her husband Dave and now includes their three boys, providing an ideal family day out.

“You get all the big players, but in a smaller feel here,” she said. “Just seeing them walk the grounds and be able to get close to players.”

What stood out as Rebecca walked the property for the first time this year? “Everything just looks upgraded, more modern,” she added. “It’s really nice.”

Then there is Marguerite, a Mason local “in her 80s,” who has been attending since 2009 — the year Roger Federer defeated rival Novak Djokovic in the men’s final. Marguerite attends every year, from first ball to last, a journey that has provided endless memories, like the time she unexpectedly shared an elevator ride with Federer. Among her favorite new additions is the 2,300-seat Champions Court.

“The sunken stadium, it’s so accessible. It’s not ticketed, they have shade and it’s just beautiful,” she said. “I’m really impressed.”

“This is probably better than even some of the Slams.”

Not only are fans speaking highly of the noticeable differences, but players alike who have spoken with the media thus far have shared the same opinion. American wild cards Nishesh Basavareddy and Jenson Brooksby participated in the men’s draw ceremony Tuesday and both shared a positive view.

“This is my first time here as a player,” said Basavareddy. “This is kind of my home tournament, I’m from Indiana — just a two-hour drive. It’s way different than coming here as a fan. I used to come here every year. But this is probably better than even some of the Slams I would say.”

Brooksby added: “I love the renovations. Everything from the locker room, player’s cafeteria is really nice. I’m happy to be back. It’s very sweet.”