Viral: The 2025 National Bank Open Schedule Explained
Get the complete breakdown of the 2025 National Bank Open! Discover dates, locations, top players to watch, and how the unique schedule works.
Alex Carter
A lifelong tennis fanatic and sports journalist covering major ATP and WTA tours.
The tennis world turns its eyes to North America every summer, and right at the heart of the hard-court season is one of the most unique and beloved tournaments on the calendar: the National Bank Open. What makes it go viral year after year? It's not just the world-class tennis; it's the brilliant, one-of-a-kind schedule that splits the ATP and WTA tours between two of Canada's greatest cities.
If you've ever been confused about who plays where and when, you're in the right place. We're breaking down the complete 2025 National Bank Open schedule, explaining its dual-city format, and highlighting everything you need to know to follow the action. Let's dive in!
The NBO's Unique Structure: Why Montreal AND Toronto?
Unlike most tournaments, the National Bank Open (often called the Canadian Open) is held simultaneously in two cities. The men's ATP Tour and the women's WTA Tour play in separate locations, swapping cities each year. This innovative format allows Canada to host two massive, top-tier events at the same time, giving fans across the country a chance to see the world's best.
So, where is everyone heading in 2025? Here’s the official breakdown:
- ATP (Men's Tour) will be in Montreal.
- WTA (Women's Tour) will be in Toronto.
This means if you want to see the likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, you'll be heading to IGA Stadium in Montreal. If you're eager to watch superstars like Iga Świątek and Coco Gauff, Sobeys Stadium in Toronto is your destination. It’s a tradition that makes this event a standout on the global sports calendar.
Mark Your Calendars: 2025 National Bank Open Official Schedule
While the players are in different cities, the tournament timeline runs in parallel. This creates a thrilling week of non-stop action for tennis fans. Here are the key dates to circle on your calendar for both Montreal and Toronto.
Qualifying Rounds: Saturday, August 2 – Sunday, August 3, 2025
This is where the tournament officially kicks off. The qualifying rounds are a hidden gem for tennis lovers. You'll see hungry, highly skilled players ranked just outside the top 50 battling for a coveted spot in the main draw. It’s high-stakes tennis at a fraction of the price, and it's the perfect way to see the sport’s next big stars before they break out.
Main Draw Action: Monday, August 4 – Sunday, August 10, 2025
This is when the heavy hitters arrive. The 64-player main draw is packed with the world's elite from start to finish.
- Monday to Wednesday (Rounds 1 & 2): The grounds are buzzing. Nearly every player is in action during these first few days. It's your best chance to see a wide variety of matchups and catch your favorite player on an outer court for a more intimate viewing experience.
- Thursday (Round of 16): The field has been cut in half. Every match is a blockbuster, featuring seeded players and giant-killers who have fought their way through the early rounds. The intensity ramps up noticeably.
- Friday (Quarter-finals): Often called the best day in tennis. Eight players remain, and a spot in the semi-finals is on the line. The atmosphere is electric as the path to the championship becomes clearer.
- Saturday (Semi-finals): The final four. Two massive matches decide who will play for the title. Expect epic rallies, incredible drama, and a stadium filled with nervous energy.
- Sunday (Finals): Championship Sunday. The two remaining players battle for the prestigious National Bank Open trophy. It’s a day of legacy, glory, and unforgettable tennis.
Players to Watch: The Stars of Montreal & Toronto
While the final player lists aren't confirmed until closer to the date, we can anticipate which stars will be lighting up the Canadian courts.
The ATP Titans in Montreal
Montreal's IGA Stadium is known for its passionate, vocal crowds, and they'll have plenty to cheer for. Expect to see the new generation of superstars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, whose athletic rivalries have already become legendary. Don't be surprised to see established champions like Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev leveraging their hard-court prowess. And of course, the Canadian contingent, led by players like Félix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov, will be channeling the home-crowd energy to fuel a deep run.
The WTA Powerhouses in Toronto
The WTA tour is defined by its incredible depth and star power. In Toronto, all eyes will be on world #1 Iga Świątek, whose dominance is always a sight to behold. She’ll face stiff competition from American sensation Coco Gauff and the powerful Aryna Sabalenka. Fans will also be eagerly watching for former champion Bianca Andreescu, whose historic 2019 win is still fresh in the memory of Canadian fans. Alongside fellow Canadian Leylah Fernandez, the home hopes will be strong in a stacked field.
More Than Just a Tournament: The NBO's Crucial Role
Why is this event so important to the players? It’s classified as an ATP Masters 1000 and a WTA 1000 tournament, placing it just one level below the four Grand Slams. This means there are massive ranking points and significant prize money on the line.
Beyond that, its placement in the calendar is key. The National Bank Open is a cornerstone of the US Open Series, the sequence of hard-court tournaments leading up to the final major of the year in New York. Players use this event to fine-tune their games, build momentum, and prove they are a contender for the US Open crown. A strong performance in Canada often translates to success in Flushing Meadows.
How to Experience the National Bank Open
Whether you're planning a trip or watching from your couch, here’s how to get the most out of the tournament.
Tips for Attending in Person
- Buy Tickets Early: Especially for later rounds, tickets sell out fast. Secure your spot as soon as they go on sale.
- Explore the Grounds: Your ticket gets you more than just a seat. Wander the grounds, watch players on the practice courts, and enjoy the food and sponsor activities. Seeing a top-5 player practice from just a few feet away is an unforgettable experience.
- Catch a Qualifying Match: As mentioned, the qualifying weekend offers incredible value and a chance to discover new talent.
How to Watch From Home
Can't make it to Montreal or Toronto? No problem. The tournament receives extensive broadcast coverage. In North America, check your local listings for major sports networks like TSN/RDS in Canada and ESPN/Tennis Channel in the US. The official ATP and WTA TV apps are also fantastic resources for keeping up with scores and streams around the world.
Get Ready for a Thrilling Week of Tennis!
The 2025 National Bank Open is shaping up to be another can't-miss event. With the men battling in Montreal and the women competing in Toronto, it’s a full-throttle week of power, precision, and passion. Now that you have the schedule and know what to look for, all that's left is to enjoy the show.
Whether you're in the stands or tuned in from afar, get ready for an unforgettable showcase of the world's best tennis.