This year’s Cincinnati Open has been anything but ordinary, with every day bringing something unexpected.
It started with the introduction of a new 12-day format, which was paired with the Canadian Open in an attempt to streamline the schedule.
This has arguably led to increased disarray, compelling numerous prominent players to withdraw from the Toronto and Montreal events, with many who advanced far in those tournaments subsequently pulling out of Cincinnati.
On top of that, power outages, odd weather patterns and unpredictable results have turned this year’s event into one of the most unusual editions in recent memory.
Visibility problems put Cincinnati Open under fire
Players have responded positively to the changes that the £200m overhaul made possible, with many noting how much the new design has improved the venue.
The updates look impressive, and the facilities have earned plenty of praise from those attending.
However, speaking on The Tennis Podcast, David Law and Matt Roberts pointed out an issue that is only noticeable to viewers watching from home.
Law said: “It’s been an amazing renovation job, and it’s a cool facility. I do sometimes have some issues with the visibility of the ball on centre court when it’s really gleaming sun in certain angles because they’ve changed the colour code, haven’t they?
“You know, it’s always been a darker blue court with a green surround, the same as the US Open to get that US Open series going in, which I must admit I preferred that. I like that idea of having an identity for a swing of American hard courts.”
“I think it’s a shame but they’ve obviously done a great job. The players love going there. The problem is it’s so hot at the moment. It looks like a miserable place to be spending time. And it’s out of their control. It’s just where it is.”
Roberts added: “It does affect the vibe of matches when people can’t sit in those non-shaded seats. It just looks empty.”
“I do think the brightness of that centre court has been a problem for a while,” he added. “Like, I don’t think that’s to do with the colour change. I think it’s something to do with where they’ve put cameras around centre court.”
“They’ve moved about a lot in Cincinnati,” he continued. “It used to be really low in Cincinnati now it’s one of those higher ones and yeah something’s wrong because as you said during day sessions it’s really hard to see but you go on other courts…”
The heat has also been tough on players this year. Sinner mentioned how challenging conditions have been during his matches, though there is not much anyone can do about this particular issue.
Breakdown of the changes to the Cincinnati Open
With over $260m invested into upgrading the Cincinnati Open campus, it is clear to see where all that money has gone.
The changes are impossible to miss, and while there have been some complaints about visibility on Centre Court, there’s no question that the overall setup looks a lot better now.
The organisers have added more greenery throughout the grounds, built a new sunken Champions Court, increased seating around Grandstand Court, and even put in a six-court indoor facility.
There is plenty for both players and fans to enjoy. It is important in this location too since there is not much else to do besides tennis.
Bob Moran, President of Beemok Sports and Entertainment – which is owned by Emma Navarro’s father – said: “We are ushering in a new era at the Cincinnati Open, and the complete transformation of our campus will create an unparalleled experience for our fans and players.”
And it really does feel like they’ve managed to deliver on that promise.
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