From August 4 to 13, fans will Feel Tennis like never before at IGA Stadium during the 2023 National Bank Open presented by Rogers, which unveiled one of the most extensive and exciting programs in its history. Many of the memorable activities that have made the tournament so popular are back again along with new celebrations and fun activities.
HIGHLIGHTS
1) WATCH TENNIS – Viewing event for the live draw ceremony on August 4 at 5 p.m.
New in 2023: the NBO invites the public to experience the official draw on August 4, right in the heart of downtown Montreal! During the draw, fans will discover the must-see duels of the tournament's opening rounds. On the outdoor terrace of Place Ville Marie's Cathcart, two giant screens will be set up to allow fans to come and enjoy the outdoor draw, which will be broadcast live from the Cathcart on TVA Sports. During the event, two WTA players will also be on hand for a quick autograph and photo session.
2) EXPERIENCE TENNIS – Free fun during IGA Family Weekend from August 4 to 6
As is tradition, the NBO will officially launch its festivities with the IGA Family Weekend in association with Maple Leaf Foods and VIA Rail Canada. From Friday, August 4 to Sunday, August 6, the stadium opens its gates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving fans free admission to the qualifying matches and practice courts to see the best players in the world train in preparation for their week of tennis. There’s a myriad of fun things to do, including shows, kids’ tennis, raffles, games and special activities organized as part of the Mental Timeout initiative supported by Beneva, in addition to these main activations:
- Tennis Canada Fan Zone: Our new Fan Zone isn’t just for tennis fanatics – it’s for the entire family, with tennis games and activities for everyone. Families can take up challenges and fill their passport to enter to win prizes!
- Virtual reality experiences: Also new this year are the innovative virtual reality experiences. All week long, fans can compete in virtual matches on site and have the chance to win daily prizes.
- Mental Timeout initiative supported by Beneva activities: Once again, fans will have the chance to take part in several wellness activities on-site at IGA Stadium as part of the Mental Timeout initiative supported by Beneva. In addition to our brand-new pet therapy activity, participants will also be able to take part in yoga session (some with WTA players) and even write messages of encouragement for players on our Positivity Postcards!
- Ball hockey with NHL stars on August 6 at 2 p.m.: The Ball Hockey Challenge presented by Knapper is back again this year as NHLers, including Quebecer Jonathan Huberdeau of the Calgary Flames, take on the stars of the WTA in an exciting ball hockey match.
Reserve an IGA Family Weekend pass: https://nationalbankopen.com/m...
3) TENNIS SOUNDS – An electrifying opening night on August 7 starting at 6 p.m.
The main draw of the National Bank Open officially kicks off on Monday evening, August 7, and it promises to be an emotional night:
- Clay and Friends in concert: Hailing from Verdun, the popular local band will put on an electrifying show on a stage set up in the heart of the stadium grounds starting at 6 p.m., 30 minutes before the first match gets underway.
- Tribute to Eugène Lapierre: At 6:30 p.m., following the live show, emotions will be running high at a special ceremony on Centre Court to honour former NBO tournament director Eugène Lapierre with a number of very distinguished guests in attendance. After over two decades at the helm of the championship, Mr. Lapierre announced his retirement last October, when he handed over the reins to Valérie Tétreault.
4) FEEL TENNIS – Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the WTA on August 10 starting at 6:50 p.m.
The Hologic WTA Tour is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and to mark the occasion the NBO has planned a very special ceremony before the evening session on August 10. WTA representatives, most notably the President of the WTA Steve Simon, current and former players and some of Canada’s rising tennis stars will be on hand to mark this historic milestone in women’s sports. The tournament will make the most of the ceremony to reiterate its commitment to offering equal prize money at both of its events as of 2027 thanks to the support of National Bank and WTA Ventures.
5) TENNIS TASTE – Antonio Park and the Davis Cup on finals weekend
In addition to some exciting tennis showdowns, there are two major happenings on finals weekend.
- Renowned Montréal chef Antonio Park will introduce fans to a range of superb gastronomic delights at his pop-up experience. Park transforms traditional Japanese and Korean cuisine by interweaving South American spirit and North American essence into every dish. The Chef revisions nature’s bounty by exploring the distinct flavors that pay homage to the deep-rooted cooking techniques of his heritage.
- From August 11 to 13 only, the collaboration between the chef and the NBO will thrill foodie tennis fans and heighten the culinary experience at IGA Stadium. Gyozas, makis, special bowls and bento boxes are just some of the delicacies that will be offer to curious visitors.
- The National Bank Open in Montréal also has the privilege of being the very last stop on the Davis Cup Champions Tour presented by Sobeys. On Friday, August 11, the prestigious silver salad bowl will stand in the Tennis Canada Fan Zone. And before the evening session on Saturday August 12, Centre Court will host a special ceremony with several former Davis Cup team members from Québec.
“We have a sensational program in store for Canadian and international tennis fans at the National Bank Open this August,” said Valérie Tétreault, Tournament Director in Montréal. “The NBO has made a name for itself as a tournament at which fans can Feel Tennis with all their senses, and that’s truer than ever this year. From Clay and Friends’ live show to Antonio Park’s culinary magic, spectacular tennis matches, fun games and emotional celebrations, there’s certainly something for everyone.”
