Rolex Paris Masters History: Discover the Milestone Matches That Defined the Indoor Classic
The Rolex Paris Masters originated in 1969 as the Paris Open, evolving from the earlier French Covered Court Championships hosted at Stade Pierre de Coubertin. Played on indoor carpet, this tournament laid the foundation for what would become the crown jewel of indoor tennis in the Open Era.
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Rolex Paris Masters History: Birth and Early Growth (1969–1985)
From the outset, the tournament attracted top-tier players. Tom Okker claimed the inaugural title on indoor carpet, demonstrating the potential of this new Parisian event . Over these formative years, it built a solid presence on the ATP calendar through consistent competition and growing visibility.
Expansion and Elite Status (1986–2006)
In 1986, the event relocated to Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy (today’s Accor Arena), offering enhanced facilities and capacity. By 1989, it had earned Grand Prix Super Series status and joined the ATP Championship tier in 1990. By 2000, it was designated an ATP Masters 1000 event—the final major step confirming its elite status. During this time, matches were held on carpet courts, which aligned with powerful serve-and-volley play.
Surface Transformation and Tactical Shift (2007–2010)
To modernize play, the tournament transitioned from carpet to indoor hard courts in 2007. By 2011, organizers gradually slowed the surface to promote longer rallies and more strategic tennis—reflecting wider trends on the tour.
Champions and Historic Moments
Novak Djokovic has defined the event with seven Paris titles, including a rare three-peat from 2013 to 2015. Other multiple champions include Boris Becker and Marat Safin (three titles each), Andre Agassi (two), and Roger Federer (one). Exclusive achievements like the indoor–outdoor double—winning both Roland-Garros and Paris Masters in the same year—have been accomplished by Ilie Năstase, Agassi, Federer, and Djokovic (twice).
The Premier Indoor Finale (2009–2024)
Since 2009, the Rolex Paris Masters has held unique status as the only indoor ATP Masters 1000 event, drawing players into a season’s final showdown before the ATP Finals. The 2024 tournament, won by Alexander Zverev, drew a record-breaking 176,451 spectators to Accor Arena, underlining its growing popularity.
A Bold Leap: Paris La Défense Arena in 2025
In January 2024, the FFT announced the tournament’s relocation to Paris La Défense Arena in Nanterre beginning in 2025. Europe’s largest indoor venue, opened in 2017, will offer around 23,000 seats (up from Bercy’s 16,800), four competition courts, a practice court, and modernized spectator facilities. Session formats will shift to “3 daytime + 2 evening” to reduce late finishes. The bold new tournament slogan, “Vibrons plus grand” (“Unleash the vibe”), encapsulates this upgrade.
Looking Ahead: The 2025 Edition
Taking place from 25 October to 2 November 2025, the 40th Rolex Paris Masters will open in its most advanced form yet. The event’s expanded infrastructure, improved accessibility from RER/metro/tram, and enhanced planning set the stage for a landmark tournament.
Why History Matters
The Rolex Paris Masters has continually balanced tradition and innovation. Its evolution—from Coubertin to Bercy, through surfaces and champions, and now a transformative shift to La Défense—reflects its status as the indoor crown jewel of the ATP Tour.
Be Part of the Legacy in 2025
The 2025 Rolex Paris Masters offers a unique chance to witness tennis history in action—elite players, cutting-edge venue, season-ending excitement. Don’t just watch tennis: be there for the grand indoor finale of the ATP season.
Secure your spot now and experience the vibrancy of the Parisian tennis renaissance at Paris La Défense Arena, 25 October–2 November 2025!