Paris Masters 1000 returns for 40th anniversary

The Masters 1000 of Paris will celebrate its 40th anniversary from November 2 to 8 at the Plenitude Arena in La Defense, as confirmed by tournament director Cédric Pioline in an interview with AFP. This will be the second consecutive year the event takes place at the venue, which replaced the previous location at Bercy.

Ticket pricing honors tournament's origin

Tickets for the event will cost 19.86 euros, a price that references the year the tournament was established in 1986. Attendees born in that year can participate in a special draw by presenting an identity document, with winners receiving a behind-the-scenes experience as a prize.

Former champions to participate in opening sessions

Starting on November 4, former winners of the tournament will take part in the opening of evening sessions. They will share interviews and short films about the year they won, adding a nostalgic and historical element to the event. Details about the final ceremony remain undisclosed.

Improvements made after first edition

Pioline described the first year at the Plenitude Arena as a "year of confirmation," aiming to establish a routine after the move from Bercy. The first edition was a success, drawing 220,000 attendees and receiving positive feedback from players. Improvements included better television coverage and a new ticketing system for 500 numbered seats on court N.1.

Enhancements to spectator experience

Retractable stands on courts 1 and 2 will be expanded to improve the spectator experience and enhance the atmosphere during matches. These changes aim to make the venue more immersive for fans watching live.

Tournament unaffected by Live Nation acquisition

The recent acquisition of the Plenitude Arena by Live Nation, announced in September, does not affect the tournament's current operations. Pioline mentioned that the 10-year contract with the new owner will begin in 2025, but the tournament will continue as planned.

Top players set to compete despite Sinner's absence

Although world number one and defending champion Jannik Sinner is injured and unable to compete, Pioline expressed satisfaction with the draw, which includes top players such as Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, and Novak Djokovic. He also highlighted the importance of strong performances from French players, particularly Arthur Fils, who could qualify for the ATP Finals in Paris.