Today, Tennis Canada announced that the main building at IGA Stadium has been named the Jacqueline L. Boutet Pavilion. It currently houses the offices of Tennis Canada, Tennis Québec and Tennis Montréal, the indoor tennis club and the National Tennis Centre presented by Rogers.
Jacqueline Boutet, who passed away peacefully on March 31, 2022, was a distinguished businesswoman and pioneer and paved the way for many women who hold prestigious positions today. Her civic-mindedness led her to dedicate her life to promoting sports and the arts and generously supporting organizations and foundations in the health field.
As the chair of Tennis Canada’s Board of Directors, she ensured the survival of the tournament in Montréal by raising the necessary funding from private businesses and various levels of government to completely transform Parc Jarry from a charming but antiquated baseball park into a magnificent tennis stadium capable of hosting one of the world’s leading tournaments. Prior to her taking on the project, the event was at risk of disappearing because it no longer met the requirements of the sport’s governing bodies. Today, the prestigious National Bank Open presented by Rogers alternately welcomes the elite in men’s and women’s tennis and continues to broaden Montréal’s international visibility.
The stadium also gives Montrealers the opportunity to play tennis recreationally and supports the development of the exceptional players who make our nation proud.
“When the ATP issued its ultimatum, we knew we would lose the tournament,” admitted Eugène Lapierre, tournament director of the National Bank Open. “Jacqueline Boutet’s efforts, network and determination saved the day—literally. Today, we still have faith and showcase exceptional tennis for increasingly passionate audiences.”
In recognition of her exceptional vision and leadership, Jacqueline L. Boutet was made a member of the Order of Canada.
Tennis Canada will always be indebted to this grande dame, who is largely responsible for the success of the National Bank Open in Montreal, and wishes to express its enduring affection and gratitude.
We are very pleased to inaugurate the Jacqueline L. Boutet Pavilion in her honour and her memory.
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