For the first time ever, Tennis fans are treated to a record 12 days of action at the NATIONAL BANK OPEN! Originating in 1881, this is known as the world’s second longest-running tournament only after Wimbledon. That means that any and all of the sport’s greatest have competed and won here in our City! We’re talking Serena, Roger, Martina, Monica, Rafael, Andre, Arantxa, Steffi. Legends!
We had the absolute honour of attending our very first Tennis tournament, courtesy of Destination Toronto, and it was unmatched – pardon the pun! We were guided through Sobeys Stadium by Tournament Director Karl Hale – this man travels to Wimbledon with talent, he’s a big deal – where the event goes in Toronto till August 7, 2025, with action across multiple courts.
Not only did we get to visit the spaces where the athletes recharge, prep and dine – yes, we were only a little starstruck by the names we saw up-close – we got to be Centre Court! Fascinating to get a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes and what the Sport is really doing to focus on mental wellness of its athletes. What an incredible experience! We were pampered like royalty in a guest suite, complete with a concierge. We were fed and watered with the best, while in the presence of THE BEST!
The event which also takes place in Montreal, isn’t only about the matches, there’s something for everyone. Was adorable seeing kids walk around with giant tennis balls, hoping to get autographs because you just never know who you will run into here!
There was a litany of dining options available too with pop-ups, plus several activations from the likes of Sobeys, Psycho Bunny, Gatorade, Lindt and a chance to take home some swag too! We even sat-in briefly on a Mental Health panel inside the Audi VIP Lounge in the AC, which was appreciated, as it was a scorcher!
Above this, there were retailers on-site and at The Merchant of Tennis, we got to meet rapidly-rising star GABRIEL DIALLO who has propelled to stardom, flying into #36 ranking in the span of recent months. To be young, handsome and that talented!
We took lots of content. Was honestly unforgettable!
More on the historic NATIONAL BANK OPEN here.
(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)
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