ATP Masters 1000 | Canada Open: A Pillar of Tennis History

First established in 1881, the National Bank Open presented by Rogers is one of tennis’s most enduring tournaments. Only Wimbledon (1877) and the US Open (also 1881, but held earlier in the year) have longer continuous runs. What began as a local event on Toronto’s grass courts has, over nearly 150 years, evolved into a major stop on both the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tours—shaping not only Canadian tennis but also the broader global tennis calendar.

From Humble Beginnings to International Prestige

The tournament’s origins trace back to July 1881 at the Toronto Lawn Tennis Club, where the inaugural men’s event took place. Despite early challenges like rough facilities and unpredictable weather, the event quickly gained national and international recognition. Known for decades as the Canadian Open, it grew alongside the sport itself—transitioning from grass to hard courts and moving into dedicated stadiums in Toronto and Montreal. By the 20th century, it had secured its place as a key warm-up for players preparing for the US Open.

A Unique Two-City Format

Since 1981, the tournament has embraced a dual-host format: Toronto and Montreal alternate annually in hosting the men’s and women’s draws. In even-numbered years, the ATP event is held in Montreal and the WTA in Toronto; the roles reverse in odd-numbered years. This setup allows both cities to regularly host top-tier tennis and ensures fans across provinces have direct access to the sport’s stars. Over 12 days in late July and early August, the tournament features concurrent men’s and women’s events, making for a dynamic and inclusive celebration of tennis.

Among the Elite Tour Stops

The event officially became part of the ATP Masters 1000 series in 1990 and later achieved WTA 1000 status—solidifying its place among the highest-level tournaments outside the Grand Slams. With these distinctions came more ranking points, increased prize money, and deeper fields of talent. By 2025, both the men’s and women’s competitions adopted a 96-player draw, aligning with the format of the Majors. Modern enhancements in facilities, technology, and court surfaces have kept the event on par with other leading tournaments.

Legends of the Game

Throughout its history, the National Bank Open has been a stage for the game’s biggest stars. Björn Borg lifted trophies in the 1970s, while Ivan Lendl dominated the 1980s with a record six titles. The likes of John McEnroe, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic have all left their mark in Canada. In 2023, Jannik Sinner captured his first title here, signaling a generational shift and highlighting the tournament’s role in launching future greats.

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Defining Moments

The event has produced countless iconic moments. In 2004, Andre Agassi mounted a dramatic comeback in the final. In 2019, Bianca Andreescu made history as the first Canadian in the Open Era to win the singles title at home, inspiring a wave of national pride. The 2021 tournament, held without spectators due to COVID-19, was a sobering yet powerful reminder of the sport’s resilience. Every edition brings its own stories of breakthrough wins, dramatic upsets, and epic battles.

More Than a Tennis Tournament

As a key fixture in the North American hard-court season, the National Bank Open is crucial preparation for the US Open. Top players fine-tune their games here, while fans enjoy an immersive experience filled with matches, live entertainment, celebrity appearances, and fan-friendly events. For Toronto and Montreal, the tournament is a summer celebration that reflects Canada’s passion for tennis and sense of community.

A Continuing Legacy

With deep roots in the sport and a reputation for excellence, the National Bank Open remains a cornerstone of the global tennis calendar. Combining history with innovation, it continues to attract both legendary champions and rising stars. Whether in Toronto or Montreal, each summer brings new chapters to a storied tradition that shows no signs of slowing down.

Plan Your Experience

Whether you’re a seasoned tennis enthusiast or a newcomer to the game, the National Bank Open offers a chance to experience world-class tennis in an electric atmosphere. Mark your calendar for July and August and witness history in the making.