The Lindner Family Tennis Center (LFTC), home of the Masters 1000 Cincinnati tournament, also known as the Cincinnati Open, is located in Mason, 35 km north of Cincinnati. Previously, it was a large but intimate complex with a family-friendly atmosphere, where the love of tennis permeated everything from the youngest volunteers to every spectator. But that's a thing of the past.

An aerial view of the completely renovated LFTC. Photo: Cincinnati Open

With the organizers implementing a new 12-day format and an expanded draw of 96 players, the Cincinnati Open has undergone a complete transformation. A $260 million investment and 328 days of renovations have made all the difference. The tournament's website was also revamped before big names like Jannik Sinner, Steffi Graf, and Andre Agassi attended the complex's grand opening.

French player Ugo Humbert expressed his surprise and delight upon returning to witness the tournament's makeover. "Before, Cincinnati was really tough. The space for players was very cramped, we were always bumping into each other," he said. "Now, it's amazing. Honestly, this is the best tournament of the year. In terms of facilities, it's on par with a Grand Slam. The locker rooms are fantastic, and the wellness area makes us feel incredibly comfortable."

Venus Williams even likened it to paradise, saying, "This place is now a tennis paradise. No, I should say a racquet sports paradise, because now the complex also has pickleball and padel."

Center Court with a capacity of 11,400. Photo: Cincinnati Open

The heart of the old Cincinnati Open was a four-story building with slow elevators, where players, journalists, spectators, and staff were constantly jostling for space. Players' impressions of the tournament were of cramped spaces, a small restaurant, and tiny locker rooms. Now, they enjoy a new 5,200-square-meter building with modern and sophisticated architecture. The colors and materials create a relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant seats 376, and players can choose to sit on the outdoor terrace or in the luxurious indoor lounge.

Everything is designed for player comfort, and they are clearly thrilled. Aryna Sabalenka exclaimed, "It's crazy! When I first got here, I wondered where I was. Everything is different, like a completely new tournament. I love it! I'm shocked by how much I love this place." Sinner was more composed but admitted to a strange feeling upon returning because everything was new. "Everything is bigger. Walking in, I felt like I was in the lobby of a luxury hotel. It's an honor to compete in facilities like these." Alcaraz felt "as if he were playing this tournament for the first time."

Player satisfaction and comfort are top priorities at the Cincinnati Open. But spectators haven't been forgotten. With America's car culture, it's not uncommon for fans to drive for hours just to see a day of tournament play. Pete Holtermann, the tournament's media relations manager, explained that the goal was to renovate the complex and transform the venue while preserving its essence. "We want the tournament to still be itself, but better," he said. In fact, the organizers have avoided the risk of creating a soulless complex like the Miami Open. From the moment they enter the LFTC, spectators are well taken care of, with every amenity provided for the best possible experience.

More than 42,000 flowers have been planted along the walkways within the complex. Photo: Cincinnati Open

The LFTC now boasts a total of 31 tennis courts, nearly double the 17 in 2023, and all have stands. Practice sessions are no longer "peeped at" by spectators through gaps in the tarps but have become genuine attractions. A recent practice session by British player Emma Raducanu, ranked 39th in the world, was packed with spectators.

The new court layout is designed to optimize viewing, similar to the Cour des Princes at Roland Garros, with courts situated lower than the public walkways, allowing spectators to choose to sit and watch or simply catch a few serves while strolling. "There are also mandatory activity booths for children and a game room where you can sometimes spot a few players," Holtermann added.

In addition to the 11,400-seat Center Court, the 5,000-seat Grandstand, and the 4,000-seat Court 3, a fourth major court has been added: the 2,300-seat Champions Court. The fan zone has been expanded, featuring live concerts every day, and no fewer than 42,000 flowers have been planted along the walkways.

When asked to summarize the changes at the LFTC, Venus Williams said, "This complex is a model for tennis, constantly innovating and full of creativity."

Hoang Thong (via Cincinnati Enquirer)