$15,000,000 Final Straw Launched to Save 125-Year-Old American Masters 1000 Event’s Legacy After Reports Strongly Indicate Venue Change

The Cincinnati Open, a.k.a. Western & Southern Open, is one of the oldest American tennis tournaments still played in its origin city. Since its culmination in 1899, the tournament is organized in Mason, Ohio, near Cincinnati. However, there have been some recent developments about the venue of the Western & Southern Open. The owner of the tournament, Beemok Capital, is planning to move the Master’s tournament to another city. But the home city of the tournament bid a huge amount in order to retain the Open.

In a report on 10th May, it was revealed that Beemok, Capital, owners of the Cincinnati Master’s since last August, are planning to change cities for the event. After the approval by the United States Tennis Association, Beemok made plans to shift the venue, and the ATP and WTA 1000 tournaments in the city could end up moving.

Western & Southern Open on the move, or not?

Beemok Capital are looking to build a $400 million compound in Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of their relocation plan. They have planned the construction of 40 courts, including four stadiums and an amphitheater that can accommodate events besides tennis. The financial service corporation is looking forward to being finished by 2026. But Mason is not ready to let go of its prized championship.

The Mason City Council recently approved a $15 million incentive for the expansion of the Lindner Family Tennis Center, the current stadium of the Cincinnati Open. They have planned an expansion project of $150 million. However, there is little to no affirmation that the incentive will retain the Western and Southern Open. It could be months before there is any confirmation of the move.

Read more – Novak Djokovic Matches Roger Federer’s Unique Record at Western & Southern Open

The city council’s funding is an addition to the Ohio state’s commitment of $25 million and Warren County’s funding of $10.5 million. As of now, there is no clarity on the move. However, Beemok says that they will invest an additional $225 million if the tournament stays in Mason. 

Retaining the tournament not likely

As the city of Mason fights for the championship, national site-search consultant John Boyd declared that shifting is imminent. Although Mason city council is giving many incentives, Beemok Capital has ties to Charlotte, which could bolster the move.

He further stated that several high-level consultants are working behind the scenes for the deal to finalize. 

Watch this story – GOATS Lewis Hamilton and Roger Federer Bring 27 Titles In One Frame

Whether the tournament will move or not still remains to be seen. The citizens of Ohio would have to live with uncertainty for a little while longer.