The Stakes: More Than a Tune-Up
Don’t mistake this for a simple warm-up. As a combined ATP and WTA 1000 tournament, the Cincinnati Open is one of the biggest events outside the four Grand Slams. Main draw play for the 2026 edition runs from August 13 to August 23 at the Lindner Family
Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio. For the players, it’s a high-stakes battle for 1,000 ranking points and a final chance to find hard-court form before heading to New York for the US Open. The tournament's history dates back to 1899, making it one of the oldest and most storied stops on the tour. For fans, it offers a rare chance to see nearly the entire field of top pros in a more intimate setting than a Grand Slam provides.
The Contenders: Who to Watch
The men's field is stacked, though defending champion Carlos Alcaraz is absent. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner is the top seed, but his participation has been in question, potentially making Alexander Zverev the de facto headliner. All eyes will also be on Novak Djokovic, who is on the entry list and a two-time former champion (2023, 2018). The American contingent is strong, with top-10 players Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton carrying home hopes alongside Frances Tiafoe and Tommy Paul. Keep an eye on rising stars like Arthur Fery, who is making his Cincinnati debut after a breakout run at Wimbledon.
On-Site Pro Tips: Making the Most of Your Visit
For those attending in person, the key is to explore. A single ticket provides access to your reserved seat (if you have one) and all the outer courts and grounds. The best value is often during the early rounds (Aug. 13-18), when top players can be found on smaller courts, offering incredibly close views. Be sure to check out the practice courts, where interactions with players are common. The venue is now entirely cashless, so bring a card. You can bring in an empty reusable water bottle to use at filling stations, a must for the August humidity. Backpacks are not permitted. And don't miss the new Kroger Indoor Fan Zone, an air-conditioned space with player Q&As and other entertainment.
Beyond the Baseline: Food and Fun
The tournament is famous for its fan experience beyond the courts. The food court features everything from local Cincinnati favorites to diverse international options. You can find everything from quick snacks like fire-grilled pretzels to full meals from beloved area restaurants. Outside of the tennis, the Lindner Family Tennis Center's location in Mason places it near other attractions like Kings Island amusement park. The tournament itself features over 80 live musical acts, autograph sessions, and a new Community Weekend (Aug. 8-9) to kick things off.
How to Watch From Home
If you can't make it to Ohio, Tennis Channel is the exclusive home for the Cincinnati Open in the United States. Full coverage of every match is available for streaming on the Tennis Channel App. The main Tennis Channel broadcast will feature marquee matches, and select matches will also be available for free on Tennis Channel 2. Several live TV streaming services that carry Tennis Channel, such as Sling TV, Fubo, and YouTube TV, will also provide access to the tournament. Day sessions typically begin at 11 a.m. ET, with night sessions starting at 7 p.m. ET.
