Athens, June 10 – The Vanda Pharmaceuticals Athens Open WTA 250 will bring top-tier international women’s tennis back to the Greek capital this July, for the first time since 1990. The tournament, held from July 11 to 19, 2026, will solidify Athens’ position as a premier destination for major international tennis events, following the successful return of the ATP Tour to Greece in 2025.
Olympic Tennis Center to Host Event
The tournament will be hosted at the Athens Olympic Tennis Center, which previously staged the tennis events of the 2004 Olympic Games. The facilities, recently renovated as part of a broader upgrade of Olympic infrastructure, are now considered among the most modern and high-quality tennis venues in Greece. Matches for the Vanda Pharmaceuticals Athens Open will be played on three outdoor hard courts, with the central court accommodating over 8,500 spectators and the other courts providing a total of more than 3,500 seats.
Top Players and Global Broadcast Expected
More than 60 leading female tennis players from around the world are expected to compete in Athens, including athletes ranked highly in the WTA global standings. This offers the Greek public a rare opportunity to witness world-class tennis up close. Additionally, the tournament will be broadcast internationally, showcasing Athens and Greece to millions of viewers worldwide, further enhancing the country’s presence on the global sports map.
Vanda Pharmaceuticals as Title Sponsor
With Vanda Pharmaceuticals as the Title Sponsor, the Athens Open aims to leave a strong and lasting impression on the international tennis scene. Following its successful support of the ATP 250 in Athens in 2025, Vanda Pharmaceuticals reaffirms its commitment to professional tennis, strengthening its presence in the sport and supporting the historic return of the WTA Tour to Greece.
Djordje Djokovic, Tournament Director, stated: “The support of Vanda Pharmaceuticals as Title Sponsor once again is of significant value to the organization. As we welcome the return of the WTA Tour to Athens after 35 years, this partnership will help us elevate the Athens Open to the highest level, offering a world-class experience for athletes and fans, while also honoring Athens’ significant history and legacy in international tennis.”
Michalis Polymeropoulos, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vanda Pharmaceuticals, commented: “We are particularly proud to be the Title Sponsor of the Vanda Pharmaceuticals Athens Open. The event marks the return of professional women’s tennis to beautiful Athens for the first time in 35 years and will host top athletes from around the world. The Vanda Pharmaceuticals Athens Open is a historic event that perfectly aligns with Vanda’s mission to globally promote the pursuit of happiness and health.”
Maria Sakkari to Feature Prominently
The return of the WTA Tour to Athens will feature Maria Sakkari as a central figure, adding special significance for Greek tennis. In the first Athens Trophy in 1986, Maria Sakkari’s mother, Angeliki Kanellopoulou, reached the final, creating a unique link between the past and present of Greek tennis on the same stage.
Further Details to Be Announced
More details regarding player participation, ticket availability, the volunteer program, and a series of unique experiences for the public will be announced in the coming period. These initiatives aim to transform this summer into a unique tennis celebration in Athens. For the latest news, player announcements, and all tournament updates, follow the official Athens Open social media accounts (@athensopen).
Source: https://www.newsbeast.gr/sports/arthro/13159846/i-athina-ypodechetai-xana-to-wta-tour-epeita-apo-35-chronia
