A bold expansion is underway at Tennis Canada, and its timing couldn’t be better. This summer, the National Bank Open presented by Rogers (NBO) will debut a larger, longer, and more globally significant format that reflects years of planning and partnership.
Under CEO Gavin Ziv’s leadership, the tournament’s main draw will increase from 56 to 96 singles players, with match play extended from one week to nearly two. The upgrade officially places the NBO among an elite tier of six premier combined events on the WTA and ATP Tours.
“Our goal was never expansion for its own sake,” says Ziv. “It was about raising Canada’s visibility in the sport, growing the game here at home, and creating something that matches the calibre of our fans, athletes, and host cities.”
More Matches, More Momentum
Toronto’s business and visitor economy is expected to benefit directly. With 12 days of main draw match play, the event brings more athletes, international fans, media, and sponsors into the city. According to Destination Toronto, the region welcomed over 25 million visitors in 2023, generating $7.6 billion in direct economic activity. The expanded NBO adds to this momentum — drawing new and returning audiences at a time when tourism and business travel are steadily rebounding.
“We’re anticipating growth across key sectors — hospitality, retail, transportation, and temporary staffing,” Ziv says. “This expansion doesn’t just serve sport; it contributes to Toronto’s broader economic outlook.”
The longer format offers more matches and ticket options, with added opportunities for Canadian players to compete in front of home crowds. That visibility supports Tennis Canada’s goal of developing top-tier athletes and deepening national fan engagement.
Taking a Stand on Equity
Tennis Canada / Peter Power
A key outcome of the expanded format is prize money equity. For the first time, the women’s event will receive incremental prize increases starting in 2025 and reaching full parity with the men’s purse — over $9 million USD per event—by 2027.
“This is a milestone moment,” says Ziv. “The ATP and WTA have historically operated on different tracks, but this model allows us to align. It’s a statement about equality, but also about leadership.”
Delivering on the Details
Scaling up a world-class tournament brings operational complexity. Over the past 18 months, Tennis Canada’s team has worked through logistics including scheduling, athlete accommodations, venue capacity, transportation, and security. The organization also collaborated with the WTA and ATP player councils to build a format that supports athlete health and performance.
“We’ve upgraded our athlete services, invested in sport science, and planned enhancements to the player zones,” Ziv says. “We want athletes to feel supported, fans to feel engaged, and partners to see the value.”
Building Canada's Tennis Future
Tennis Canada / Tyler Anderson
Beyond the immediate economic and cultural benefits, the expanded NBO is a key part of Tennis Canada’s long-term strategy. Proceeds from the event are reinvested into infrastructure and community development—ranging from court construction and coach training to grassroots programs and gender equity initiatives.
“We’re always thinking about the ripple effect,” says Ziv. “This tournament is our flagship, but its impact reaches into communities, clubs, and classrooms across the country. It truly is the engine of tennis in Canada.”
As a result, the NBO is not just an elite competition — it’s a platform for national pride, talent development, and sustainable growth. For the Toronto region, it reinforces the city’s role as a global destination for sport, business, and culture.
“Ultimately, we’re building a legacy that goes beyond a great summer of tennis,” Ziv says. “We’re creating opportunity — for our athletes, for the local economy, and for how Canada shows up on the world stage.”
