Experience the Extravaganza
Outstanding Enhancements: A Glimpse into the Upgrades at Shanghai’s Qizhong Tennis Center
Top players Djokovic, De Minaur, Rune, and Medvedev laud the ATP Masters 1000 event
October 11, 2025
Rolex Shanghai Masters
The Rolex Shanghai Masters stands as Asia’s sole ATP Masters 1000 event.
By Greg Sharko
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Qizhong Tennis Center boasts a variety of impressive facility upgrades, making it the ultimate venue for the Rolex Shanghai Masters, Asia’s premier ATP Tour event.
Known for its distinctive magnolia-inspired retractable roof, the Qizhong Tennis Center opened its doors in 2005. It initially hosted the Tennis Masters Cup for four consecutive years before launching the ATP Masters 1000 event in 2009. Tournament director Michael Luevano and managing director Charles Humphrey Smith have witnessed the evolution of both the tournament and its facilities, highlighted by this year’s remarkable developments.
“We’ve introduced two exciting features this year,” Smith shared. “Firstly, a brand-new roof for Grandstand 2, which features a stunning design unlike any other. Secondly, we have added a dedicated practice court, creating a unique stadium setting for our top players to train.”
The innovative 1,400-seat practice stadium provides fans with an intimate experience as they watch the world’s best compete.
“It’s a relaxed atmosphere where fans can catch two or three of the elite players in action in just one day, making it like a buffet of talent,” Smith elaborated.
Court 17, the new practice court at the Rolex Shanghai Masters. Credit: Rolex Shanghai Masters
The practice stadium has been a hit among fans and players alike, including Holger Rune, who reached his first quarter-final in Shanghai this year.
“It’s fantastic for players to have a high-quality match court to train on, and it’s nice to practice in a more comfortable environment,” Rune noted. “I had three sessions on the new court—one with Novak [Djokovic], one with [Ugo] Humbert, and one with [Miomir] Kecmanovic. The space for fans is larger, making it a safer and more enjoyable atmosphere.”
Alex de Minaur, currently seventh in the PIF ATP Live Race to Turin and aiming for a second consecutive trip to the Nitto ATP Finals, also praised the upgraded facilities and the ambiance surrounding the new practice court.
“It’s a beautiful court, and I enjoyed hitting with my fellow Aussie Rinky [Hijikata], which was a lot of fun,” de Minaur remarked. “The fans here in China are incredibly supportive, and it’s always a joy to play for such enthusiastic crowds.”
Novak Djokovic, sharing a special connection with the passionate Chinese audience, boasts a record four titles in Shanghai and is making his 11th appearance since the tournament’s inception in 2009.
“Every practice feels like a match here,” Djokovic expressed. “The number of fans supporting me is overwhelming. Their energy and passion for tennis inspire me to return and perform at my best.”
The newly completed Grandstand 2 roof was constructed in just eight months, thanks to favorable weather conditions. The 5,000-seat stadium has only required closure once during the first week of main-draw matches.
Grandstand 2. Credit: Rolex Shanghai Masters
Former champion Daniil Medvedev, who won in Shanghai in 2019, played his opening match on Grandstand 2 and has always cherished his visits to this premier ATP Masters 1000 event.
“From my first visit here, I stated it’s the best tournament we have on tour, excluding the Grand Slams,” Medvedev shared. “It’s my favorite event, and I love the facilities, the courts, and the overall atmosphere.”
Grandstand 2’s retractable roof is a unique marvel; when opened, it covers the piazza area, and when closed, it provides complete protection for the court. Its innovative design sets it apart not only in tennis but in the world of sports.
Additional notable enhancements include the expansion of the miniature golf course, which has become a favorite among players. Nestled behind the player lounge, the mini golf course has grown from nine holes to 18.
“Each hole offers a glimpse into various locations in China,” Smith added. “Last year, we initiated a fun mini golf tournament, allowing players to unwind and enjoy themselves in a light-hearted setting.”
The Qizhong Tennis Center’s updates reflect two decades of growth and innovation. Luevano recalls the design phase for the iconic magnolia-inspired retractable roof over Stadium Court.
“It’s been an extraordinary journey. I vividly remember viewing the architectural designs and doubting they would ever get approved because they seemed too radical,” Luevano reflected. “However, once I learned that it symbolizes the Shanghai magnolia flower, it all made sense.”
The late Brad Drewett, former ATP Executive Chairman and President, frequently visited Shanghai from the Sydney office to monitor the construction journey.
“We toured the massive construction site with hard hats and documented everything,” Luevano reminisced. “It’s astonishing to see how much has been achieved two decades later.”
“This venue remains one of the most iconic tennis facilities worldwide. It holds a special place in my heart and history.”
