ATP CEO Calls for Modernization of Montreal Tennis Facilities
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
Eno Polo emphasizes the need for upgrades at Jarry Park to maintain competitiveness among Masters 1000 events.
ATP CEO Eno Polo has stated that the venue for the National Bank Open in Montreal requires a "facelift" to keep pace with other elite tournaments, as Sportsnet first reported. During a media roundtable on Monday, Polo noted that while the fan village and player lounge are strengths, the age of the stadium is becoming apparent, specifically regarding the suites, video screens, and the overall sponsor experience.
Speaking via Sportsnet, Polo compared the situation to owning an outdated home, citing Cincinnati's US$260 million investment in facility redevelopment as a benchmark. The call for modernization aligns with the ATP's OneVision strategy, which seeks to grow the sport and enhance fan experiences. Polo highlighted that a larger stadium would increase ticket sales and revenue, which could then be reinvested into Canadian tennis.
Tennis Canada is currently developing plans to modernize the IGA Stadium site. These proposals include the construction of additional match-ready and practice courts, as well as a new 15,000-seat Centre Court featuring a retractable roof. Polo expressed support for this vision, noting that a roof would mitigate the impact of unpredictable weather, which led to the cancellation of the Aug. 2 opening-night session and the postponement of quarterfinals this week.
With the ATP adding a 10th Masters 1000 event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2028, Polo emphasized that existing tournaments must evolve to succeed. Additionally, Polo mentioned that the ATP is exploring financial incentives and bonuses to encourage top players to prioritize Masters 1000 events over exhibition matches, coming amid comments from tournament director Valerie Tetreault regarding the absence of stars like Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner from the Montreal event for two consecutive years.