ATP Tokyo: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
The ATP Tokyo tournament, officially known as the Rakuten Japan Open Tennis Championships, is a prestigious tennis tournament held annually in Tokyo, Japan. It is part of the ATP Tour 500 series and has been held since 1972.
The tournament is played on outdoor hard courts and attracts some of the world's top tennis players. Past winners include Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal.
History
The ATP Tokyo tournament was first held in 1972 as part of the Grand Prix tennis circuit. It was originally known as the Tokyo Outdoor Championships and was played on clay courts.
In 1978, the tournament was renamed the Tokyo Indoor Championships and began to be played on indoor carpet courts. It became part of the ATP Tour in 1990 and was upgraded to ATP Tour 500 status in 2009.
In 2019, the tournament was moved to outdoor hard courts and renamed the Rakuten Japan Open Tennis Championships.
Format
The ATP Tokyo tournament is a singles and doubles event. The singles tournament features a 32-player draw, while the doubles tournament features a 16-team draw.
The tournament is played over a one-week period, with the singles final being held on the last day of the tournament.
Past Winners
Some of the notable past winners of the ATP Tokyo tournament include:
- Novak Djokovic (2019)
- Roger Federer (2014, 2015, 2016)
- Rafael Nadal (2010)
- Andy Murray (2011)
- Juan Martin del Potro (2009)
Venue
The ATP Tokyo tournament is held at the Ariake Tennis Forest Park in Tokyo, Japan. The park has four main courts, including the 10,000-seat Ariake Coliseum.
The Ariake Tennis Forest Park is located on the waterfront in Tokyo Bay and offers stunning views of the city.
Tickets
Tickets for the ATP Tokyo tournament can be purchased online or at the gate. Prices vary depending on the seat location and the day of the tournament.
Tickets for the singles final are typically the most expensive, while tickets for the early rounds of the tournament are more affordable.
Conclusion
The ATP Tokyo tournament is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in Asia. It attracts some of the world's top players and offers a great opportunity to see some of the best tennis in the world.
If you are planning to visit Tokyo, be sure to check out the ATP Tokyo tournament. It is a great way to experience the city's vibrant culture and see some of the best tennis in the world.