National Bank Open 2025: Tennis Playground Review

Toronto, ON, Canada

And Just Like That, the 2025 National Bank Open Has Concluded for Another Year!

In the lead-up to this year’s tournament, I—like many tennis fans—was questioning the extended format, which transformed the event into a two-week-long Masters 1000. The timing, coming directly after Wimbledon, also cast doubt on how many top players we’d see competing after a grueling European swing that included Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and a few 500 and 250-level events sprinkled in between.

Concerns about player participation slowly became reality when Wimbledon finalists Carlos Alcaraz and champion Jannik Sinner opted to withdraw from the Toronto tournament to rest and better prepare for the Cincinnati Masters, which commenced immediately after Toronto. That said, after attending multiple days at Sobeys Stadium, it was clear fans were simply eager to see high-quality tennis. Even without the world No. 1 and No. 2, the draw was packed with top 20 talent and offered a golden opportunity for someone new to rise and capitalize on the absence of Sinner and Alcaraz.

My First Day at the National Bank Open: The “Tennis Playground

I arrived for the day session, which began at 12:30 p.m., with gates opening at 11 a.m. Wearing my Topics of Tennis hat (a signal that I was in work mode), I set out to explore the “tennis playground” and check out the sponsor activations and products on display across the 15-acre property. My partner and I were lucky enough to have Audi VIP passes, so we made sure to explore every corner of the grounds. Below are some highlights from our experience:

Stella Artois Patio

Yes, gates opened at 11 a.m., and yes, I did a couple of laps before stopping for a cold beverage—but it was damn hot that day! How could you resist this clean, green, and modern patio?

After two brisk laps around the tennis playground, we found ourselves back at the Stella Artois Patio. With both upstairs and downstairs seating, plenty of umbrellas for sun protection, and a full bar service, this was easily one of the best spots to unwind or gear up for a big day of tennis. The menu featured spirits, pre-mixed drinks, specialty cocktails, and of course, Stella Artois. QR codes on the tables allowed you to order and have drinks delivered straight to your seat.

Private-style lounges roped off for larger groups added a touch of exclusivity. Surrounded by plants and music, this space was undoubtedly a hot commodity throughout the two-week tournament. Sitting on the second level gave us the best vantage point to snap photos and take in the full view of the grounds.

☀ La Roche-Posay

I won’t lie—this should’ve been my first stop. By the time I arrived, my legs were already turning a shade of red that matched a tomato. La Roche-Posay, the French skincare brand, is no stranger to tennis, with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner as an ambassador and a strong presence across both ATP and WTA tours.

Earlier this year, we highlighted their commitment to sun safety at Indian Wells, where they provided free sunscreen and dermatologist consultations. I steered clear of the consultation this time—didn’t want to be scolded for my semi-cooked crab legs!

Audi Tent (Premium Space)

This was high on my list, accessible only with a VIP ticket. Walking into the huge, air-conditioned tent, we were greeted by staff who checked our tickets. Surprisingly, there was no wristband or stamp for re-entry—you had to pull out your phone each time. Luckily, I stood out with my Australian accent and stereotypical bogan vibes, so I was easy to remember.

Inside, there were hundreds of chairs and tables for fans to enjoy a meal or drink in cool comfort. With multiple bars, a snack shop, and premium food options, you were guaranteed to leave a little fuller—or a little tipsier. (Whatever was in that dragon fruit cocktail is to blame!)

Merchant of Tennis

This was your one-stop shop for everything tennis: racquets, bags, clothing, and even racquet stringing. It was buzzing every time I visited. I grabbed some Rafael Nadal Nike polos for work and couldn’t resist the “Casa Fila Country Club” hoodie. With locations in East York and Oakville, Merchant of Tennis has you covered for a summer of tennis.

Copper Rose Vodka

At the 2025 National Bank Open in Toronto, Copper Rose Vodka took center stage as the featured spirit in the tournament’s signature cocktail: the Dragon Fruit Lemonade. This vibrant, tropical drink was a refreshing hit among fans, offering a bright blend of flavors that perfectly matched the summer vibe.

Crafted by Copper Rose Distillers in Windsor, Ontario, the vodka is known for its meticulous 12-time distillation process and rye-based purity. Led by master distiller Garrett Keen, the brand emphasizes quality, innovation, and a distinctly Canadian approach to vodka-making.

We even bumped into the company’s VP of Sales, Mark, who was all smiles as he offered samples to fans walking the concourse. Judging by the number of bright pink drinks we saw around the grounds, Copper Rose was a definite hit this year!

Jake Scudder

Journalist - topics of tennis