Now that Toronto’s soccer fever is over, can we talk about the National Bank Open presented by Rogers?
Bonus: it is accessible by TTC, and the tennis stadium is not nearly as crazy as a soccer stadium!
Did you know that Canada has been hosting one of the world’s oldest tennis tournaments since 1881? Today, Toronto and Montreal alternate between hosting the world-class ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events, usually held in early August.
In 2026, the women’s WTA tournament takes place in Toronto, while the men’s ATP tournament is held in Montreal. The main-draw matches in Toronto begin on August 2, with qualifying taking place on August 1.
We have attended the National Bank Open in Toronto several times over the last few years, and each visit has brought us plenty of excitement and wonderful memories. It has become one of our favorite summer family outings, not only because of the tennis, but also because of the atmosphere, practice courts, and opportunity to see world-class athletes in action—and from surprisingly close distances.
The tournament traditionally takes place at Sobeys Stadium, located at 1 Shoreham Drive on York University’s Keele Campus, near Steeles Avenue and Keele Street.
In previous years, shuttle buses were available from parking areas and Pioneer Village subway station, but always check the current arrangements before your visit. Washrooms, food stands, picnic tables, and water-refill stations are available on site.
Why Visit With Kids?
Watching tennis from your favorite couch or on your phone is perfectly fine, of course, but only at the stadium can you truly appreciate the speed and power of the shots, see all the athletes’ emotions, and how they demonstrate grace and true sportsmanship—at least most of the time!—while handling pressure, mistakes, wins, and losses.
There is also much more to see than the matches inside the main stadium: various activities, games on the outer courts, and often famous players practicing from very close distances. If you are extremely lucky, you may even get your tennis ball signed!
We started taking our daughter there when she was nine years old, and it turned out to be the right time for us.
Matches can be quite long, often lasting a few hours, and spectators need to remain quiet during play. They also need to wait for a changeover or another break in play before leaving or returning to their seats, so planning washroom breaks with little kids can be tricky.
Tickets and Courts
When you purchase tickets for Centre Court or the Grandstand, you also get access to the entire tournament grounds (except the VIP areas) and can watch outer-court matches and practice sessions.
I find it more practical to purchase tickets for the early rounds. They are more affordable, and other matches and practice sessions are happening at the same time, so you can see several different players instead of relying on one long (and sometimes disappointing!) final match. Most kids’ activities happen during the daytime as well.
Evening sessions are a bit more expensive, but I usually prefer them over daytime sessions. Sitting under the scorching sun is not my idea of a fun summer outing. Another option is to buy daytime tickets at the last minute if the weather is mild.
Keep in mind, however, that evening matches can continue until 9, 10, or even 11 p.m., so plan accordingly.
Always check the daily schedule shortly before your visit because match times and player appearances may change. There is also a free app where you can see the real-time schedule and updates.
Who’s Playing This Year?
There should be no shortage of famous players to watch this year!
Canadian fans can cheer for Leylah Fernandez, Bianca Andreescu, and Rebecca Marino. Leylah’s younger sister, Bianca Jolie Fernandez, is also a professional tennis player, and the sisters have played doubles together several times. One of the Fernandez sisters is pictured in our photo from a practice session in 2024.
Bianca Andreescu won this tournament in 2019, while other former champions in the 2026 field include American Jessica Pegula, Ukrainian Elina Svitolina, and Swiss player Belinda Bencic.
The 2026 lineup also includes stars such as Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina, Iga Świątek, Coco Gauff, Naomi Osaka, and Mirra Andreeva.
Of course, the final draw, injuries, and last-minute withdrawals can always change who actually plays.
Why We Keep Coming Back
The National Bank Open is more than just a tennis match. It gives children a chance to experience professional sports up close, observe concentration and resilience, and enjoy an active summer outing as a family.
Early rounds, practice courts, and outer-court matches can offer excellent value. With sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a little planning, it can become a memorable family tradition.
Have you attended the National Bank Open with children? What did your family enjoy most?
