Winston-Salem Open Guide: What To Know for 2025

All eyes in the tennis world turn to Winston-Salem this August as the 14th annual Winston-Salem Open returns August 16–23. As the final tune-up before the U.S. Open, the tournament draws many of the world’s top men’s players to the Wake Forest Tennis Complex for a week of 'Big Time Tennis, Served Southern Style.' Here's what to know about the annual summertime slam.

It’s an award-winning tournament

The first Winston-Salem Open was held 2011 on what was then a parking lot beside Wake Forest’s Truist Field. Organizers built everything from scratch—main stadium, competition courts, and nearly a dozen practice courts. Today, that same site has become one of the Southeast’s top tennis destinations, earning “ATP Tournament of the Year” honors in 2016.

Players love it

Former ATP President Chris Kermode says players consistently praise the Winston-Salem Open for its welcoming atmosphere and top-tier amenities. “They all say, ‘Wow, it’s such an amazing event. It’s so friendly. Great facilities, loads of practice courts—everything we could want,’” he said. Tennis legend Andy Roddick, who played in the inaugural 2011 tournament, agrees: “The way the community rallied behind the event was really special. I know a lot of other players share my feelings.”

It’s part of the world’s top tennis tour 

The Winston-Salem Open is part of the ATP Tour—the top tier of professional men’s tennis, similar to the PGA Tour in golf. The tournament features a 48-player singles draw and 16-team doubles draw, with ATP ranking points and prize money on the line. As an ATP 250 event, it offers a smaller purse than higher-tier tournaments like the Canadian or Paris Masters (ATP 1000), but consistently draws top talent thanks to its prime spot on the calendar—just ahead of the big tennis event of the year...

It’s the final tune-up before the U.S. Open

Held each August, the Winston-Salem Open is the final stop before the U.S. Open—and a favorite among players looking to fine-tune their game ahead of the season’s last Grand Slam. Tournament conditions are designed to mirror New York’s, from court surface and ball type to lighting. Finalists even receive private jet transport to the U.S. Open. It’s a setup that regularly attracts top-tier talent. In 2021, Andy Murray accepted a wild-card entry just days before play began. Other stars, like world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz, have made waves in Winston-Salem before going on to capture major titles.

The fan experience is unbeatable

“Come for the tennis—stay for the experience.” That’s been the guiding mantra of the Winston-Salem Open since its founding. Fans enjoy perks rarely found at major sporting events: free parking, spacious seating, a kids’ fun zone, and affordable ticket packages. The Wake Forest Tennis Complex is just five minutes from downtown, with dozens of nearby lodging options. The tournament also features special activities for kids and families throughout the week — including the popular Kids’ Day (Aug. 16), which includes tickets to opening day. See all special events here.

It puts Winston-Salem in the spotlight

There's a lot of local pride behind the Winston-Salem Open, starting with the name itself. Instead of selling the naming rights, organizers intentionally kept Winston-Salem in the title. “You can’t understate how unique that is and what a promotional tool it is for the city,” says tournament director Jeff Ryan. “The event is broadcast in more than 100 countries, meaning the name ‘Winston-Salem’ is seen by thousands across the globe." In addition to the name, the tournament incorporates other local touches, such as the Moravian star-shaped trophies. 

Add it all up—the exciting player field, unbeatable fan experience, and local significance—and it’s easy to see why the tournament ranks among North Carolina’s most anticipated sporting events.  

What to Know Before You Go

The 2025 Winston-Salem Open is Aug. 16-23 at the Wake Forest Tennis Center and will be broadcast on the Tennis Channel. Here's what to know:

• Tickets to individual sessions start around $12 for qualifying matches. Tickets can be purchased online (link), by phone at 336-758-6409, or in person at the Wake Forest ticket office at Bridger Field House, adjacent to the Tennis Center

• A number of ticket packages are also available, including Friends Packages, box seats, and discounted group tickets. For more details, check the WSO Tickets page (linked above). 

• No outside food or beverages are allowed, except for unopened 20-ounce (or smaller) water bottles (one per person). Check the online FAQ here to see other non-permitted items.

• You’ll find dozens of hotels within minutes of the tournament site, including the Downtown Marriott, the event’s official hotel partner. There are also several lodging options just steps away from the action, including the Courtyard by Marriott, which typically offers discounts to ticketholders. 

• Expect big names in the field (and a surprise or two). Each year, more than half of the world’s top 50 players compete in the tournament, with wild cards often announced just days before play begins. The first wildcard for 2025 has gone to collegiate standout Stefan Dostanic, who led Wake Forest to this year’s NCAA title. Visit the WSO website for the latest updates on the player field.

• A tournament legend returns in 2025.  Tennis star John Isner is returning to Winston-Salem for the 2025 tournament, appearing August 21–22 to meet fans and join the action (albeit as a spectator). A Greensboro native, Isner won the first two WSO titles (2011, 2012) before rising to become the world’s top-ranked American player (2013–2020). See more on Isner's return here.