MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – Excitement is building as the Miami Open kicks off in just two days, with thousands of fans expected to gather at Hard Rock Stadium to watch some of the world’s best tennis players compete.
“I’m excited for all the great matches, the rivalries that are starting to happen here on the women’s side,” Miami Open tournament director James Blake said. “Danielle Collins! We thought it was the last time we saw her last year holding a trophy, but now she is back again, so we are excited to have her defend her title.”
Beyond high-level competition, Blake said the tournament offers fans a chance to connect with players on a personal level.
“Get people to get to see the personalities of the players,” Blake said. “You realize they are human beings and not just robots that are out there playing for a couple of hours.”
With an expected attendance of about 400,000 over the next two weeks, organizers have worked to create an experience that extends beyond the court.
The 14,000-seat stadium was assembled from scratch in just a few weeks, and the tournament has grown into what Blake calls a festival-like atmosphere.
“As far as when we started here at the Hard Rock Stadium, we wanted to make sure it wasn’t just a tennis event,” Blake said. “It has really become an event — a place where you can come with your hardcore tennis fan or someone that is just very casual.”
For those attending, certain items will be allowed, including sealed bottled water under 1 liter per person and umbrellas, though they cannot be opened in the seating areas.
Blake emphasized the tournament’s accessibility, with early-round tickets available at an affordable price.
“You can have so much excitement, you can have a full day of entertainment for $30,” he said. “Of course, as you get later in the event, the prices will get more expensive.”
The Miami Open runs for two weeks, drawing top talent and passionate fans from around the world. Click here for more information.