Singapore has secured a major milestone in tennis. Starting in 2026, the Singapore Tennis Open will become a WTA 500 tournament, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. The upgrade follows the success of the 2025 WTA 250 edition held at the Kallang Tennis Hub, which drew praise from fans, players, and officials.

The WTA 500 Singapore tournament will run from 2026 to 2030. It joins a select group of only 17 events at this level on the WTA calendar. The move underscores Singapore’s ability to stage top-tier international sporting events and strengthens its reputation as a tennis hub in the region.

Global recognition for Singapore

WTA CEO Portia Archer said the tournament’s elevation is proof of its impact. She expressed confidence that the WTA 500 status will bring top players to compete in front of Singapore’s passionate fans. APG COO Laura Ceccarelli shared similar sentiments, noting that the upgrade reflects the tournament’s success in its debut year.

KASM CEO Quek Swee Kuan highlighted that Singapore’s selection as the only Southeast Asian host for a WTA 500 event is a testament to its infrastructure and track record. Sport Singapore CEO Alan Goh added that the tournament will inspire the next generation of players while showcasing world-class tennis on home soil.

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A bigger stage for the sport

The 2026 Singapore Tennis Open will start on September 21 and feature elite international players. Alongside the upgraded tournament, the Singapore Tennis Invitational Cup will return for its second edition. Top regional teams will battle for the title, adding another layer to the Festival of Tennis.

The OCBC Arena will be converted into a world-class venue to accommodate larger crowds, while the Kallang Tennis Hub will host the invitational competition. Fan zones and fringe activities will activate the wider Singapore Sports Hub precinct, creating a festival atmosphere for local and international audiences.

Singapore Tennis Association president Jasmine Quek said the combined events will strengthen Singapore’s position as a vibrant tennis hub. She emphasized that hosting a WTA 500 tournament is a landmark moment for the sport in the country and the region.