The Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters is an event that both players and fans look forward to. It takes place in the spring in Monte-Carlo and is the start of the European season. World-class players fly to Monaco to test their play on the red clay courts in this luxurious location. The event has been held in Monte-Carlo for many years and is part of the ATP Tour Masters 1000 series.
The venue
Many people may not know that the Monte Carlo Country Club, where the event takes place, is technically in eastern France. Train services provide easy access to the tournament. Spectators with tournament entry tickets can use the Principality’s bus lines free of charge.
The courts
Court Rainier, the main court, holds about 10,000 fans and has an upper and lower level. The Court Des Princes is smaller, but some main matches take place there. There are 20 courts in total at the venue, but about five are usually active, and the players use some of the others to practice.
After playing on hard courts, this event gives players a chance to adapt their play to clay courts. Monte Carlo often shows which players are ready to dominate on the clay courts in the season. Some players will have switched their programs sufficiently, whereas others may come up short. The geography also plays a part at this venue, with the air density at sea level and the humidity of the Mediterranean.
With the legalization of sports betting in many U.S. states, tennis fans can now place bets on the action in Monte Carlo.
Who will play this year?
Rafael Nadal stands out amongst legendary players at this venue, having won the title 11 times and with eight consecutive wins.
Carlos Alcaraz won his first Monte-Carlo singles title in 2025 after beating Fils in a superb match. He won the Australian Open and the Qatar Open and is widely considered to be a favorite this year. Will anyone be able to beat him in the new clay season?
Previous winners of the event, including Djokovic, Tsitsipas, and Andrey Rublev, will be playing this year, so the outcome isn’t a foregone conclusion.
Title sponsor
The luxury timepiece company has been the official title sponsor for many years, and this elite event is the cornerstone of its tennis sponsorship portfolio. It has a presence on court and in branding and marketing. Rolex’s sponsorship of sports is part of its long-standing commitment to prestige partnerships.
Tennis meets Riviera luxury
The Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) operates the Country Club. It also operates some of the best hotels in Monaco. This allows it to provide a whole ecosystem of luxury during the tournament.
VIP hospitality suites include the traditional Le Village with its pagodas. At Le Masters, guests can enjoy Michelin-starred chef-inspired menus. Hospitality packages provide exceptional conditions from which to witness the action, and the ‘Loges’ is a prime vantage point.
It isn’t only at the courts that fans can enjoy a spectacular experience, as Monaco and its surroundings have so much to offer. For some high-end hotel options, they can stay at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel or the Brisas Hotel, which are close to the event. Some moderately priced hotels like the Hotel Regency are situated within a five-minute walk of the venue. Some people may choose to rent out an Airbnb condo along the Mediterranean.
Entertainment Area
Between matches, spectators can make use of the Entertainment Area, which is located close to Entrance 4. It includes a video games area, workshops, and prediction contests.
Innovations for 2026
The event has embraced tech in sports, and electronic line calling will fully replace human line judges in 2026. This will help remove human error and the friction of controversial calls.
Approximately 60 high-definition cameras will service the demand for broadcasting in many other countries and the Riviera. New low-angle cameras will be able to follow rallies at the bases.
The Player Village has been expanded and now has a high-tech biomechanical recovery gym. It also has a special quiet zone to help players with mental health.
