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The Rolex Shanghai Masters, the biggest and most important men's tennis tournament in Asia is getting bigger and tournament organizers are very excited about hosting more players, more matches, and more days of thrilling tennis at the highest level.
From 4 to 15 October 2023, on the 25th anniversary of official professional tennis tournaments in Shanghai, the 13th edition of the multi award-winning Rolex Shanghai Masters will have an increased singles draw to 96 players and will become a 12-day event. That is an increase of about 42% in player numbers and a third more in the number of playing days providing tennis fans and television viewers around the world with more options to watch their favourite players in action.
The Rolex Shanghai Masters will: 1. have the largest singles draw outside of only the four majors 2. overlap two weekends 3. carry prizemoney in the vicinity of $US9million placing it among the richest men's only tournaments in the world. 4. have an increase in public attendance 5. see an extension to television coverage
"After extensive discussions and proposals, we are so very thrilled that the ATP has approved the extension to our tournament, the Rolex Shanghai Masters as well as for Masters 1000 events in several other cities around the world," Tournament Director Michael Luevano said.
"We already have 24 years of tennis history behind us and the growth and development of tennis in China has been led by Shanghai. The success of tennis in Shanghai has allowed other cities in the nation to benefit from our growth.
"In 1998 we started out as a small 250 series event; then we hosted five stunningly successful year-end championships. Since then, we have staged eleven outstanding award-winning Masters 1000 series tournaments. Now, another incredible step is being taken as tennis gains even greater elite status in this region.
"This allows us to grow and expand further and provide tennis fans with even more of the best in world tennis. QiZhong Stadium with it innovative and unique retractable roof will continue to host Asia's most awarded tennis tournament.
"We have great pride in the product that is being produced and will continue to be a bright beacon in Asia's sporting growth. We could not be happier."
Andrea Gaudenzi, ATP Chairman, said: "The expansion of this prestigious event, along with several other ATP Masters 1000 tournaments, marks a major milestone for the ATP Tour. It is an integral part of our long-term strategic vision to elevate the ATP's premium product and the experience of our fans across the tennis season. We're excited to be delivering more action at these events from next year and many more opportunities for our players."
The approval by the ATP Tour, is a very progressive and positive step and highlights the faith and confidence in China and Asia as a whole. The Rolex Shanghai Masters management is looking forward to continuing working with all its stakeholders who remain valuable, important and loyal partners.
The Rolex Shanghai Masters is grateful to the Shanghai Government, the ATP Tour Board, Juss Event and to the tournament's long standing and wonderful sponsors.
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