The 2023 Rolex Shanghai Masters, which will take place from October 4th to 15th, marks the return of ATP Masters 1000 tennis to China after a hiatus since 2019. The tournament has been expanded to 12 days and will feature appearances by Rolex Testimonee Roger Federer. The event will be held at the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena, a stunning venue, during China’s Golden Week holiday that celebrates National Day.
Rolex has a rich history with the prestigious tennis tournament in Asia. The partnership began in 2009 when the tournament came to Shanghai, and Rolex became the Title Sponsor the following year. As the highest-level sponsor, the brand has established a long-lasting relationship with the event. This year, the tournament will feature a 96-man singles draw, including top players and Rolex Testimonees Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Holger Rune, and Taylor Fritz.
The Rolex Shanghai Masters is the only ATP Masters 1000 event held outside of Europe or North America. It is a prominent fixture on China’s sporting calendar and is widely regarded as the premier tennis tournament in the region. It is the eighth of nine annual ATP Masters 1000 events, making it one of the most coveted titles on the ATP Tour, along with the four Grand Slam tournaments and the ATP Finals. The tournament in Shanghai is known for its energetic crowds and vibrant atmosphere, hosted in the visually striking Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena, inspired by the blooming magnolia, the official flower of Shanghai.
Roger Federer, the iconic Swiss tennis player with 20 Grand Slam singles titles, will make a special guest appearance at the Rolex Shanghai Masters. He has been named the Icon Athlete of the tournament in recognition of his contributions to tennis and his previous victories at the event in 2014 and 2017. Federer expressed his excitement about the upcoming tournament and his long-standing connection with the organizers.
Rolex has been involved in tennis since 1978 when it first partnered with The Championships, Wimbledon. Over the past 45 years, the brand has developed a strong relationship with the sport, particularly in China. In February 2023, Rolex announced a 10-year extension as the Title Sponsor of the Rolex Shanghai Masters, highlighting their commitment to tennis in the country.
For Rolex, a tennis match represents a unique duel between opponents who become essential partners in their pursuit of excellence. The brand views tennis as a sport that pushes athletes to their limits and cultivates precision and perpetual excellence. Rolex is a partner of all four Grand Slam tournaments and collaborates with various organizations, players, and premium events on the men’s and women’s tours, as well as international team competitions. The brand also supports the development of tennis by investing in young talent and celebrating exceptional athletes who bring glamour and greatness to the sport.
