106th edition of tennis competition
From 14th to 22nd April, Monte Carlo Tennis Masters opens the clay court season. Organized by the Societe Monegasque pour l'Exploitation du Tournoi de Tennis (SMETT), part of the ATP World Tour Masters 1000.
In August 2011, competition director Zeljko Franulovic announced that Swiss watchmaker Rolex would continue to sponsor the tournament for the following 5 years.
Rafael Nadal won in 2011, making history by becoming the first player to win the Monte Carlo Masters over 7 consecutive years in the Open Era (since 1968). He returns for 2012, along with number 1 seed and Monaco resident Novak Djokovic, and number 4 seed Andy Murray.
The closing date for player applications was 19th March.
New this year
A new restaurant is available for 2012 spectators, and for players, services have been grouped together in one building. In addition, organizers have set up an entertainment area on courts 19 and 20 for children. For older spectators, Centre Court matches are to be broadcast live on a giant screen erected on the Court des Princes from Friday after doubles matches.
A series of events is being organized including the 20th anniversary Grande Nuit du Tennis, with a show called Rock the Ballet including dancers from Rasta Thomas' Bad Boys of Dance. Events on the program:
- Launch Party
- Grande Nuit du Tennis
- kids day (usually Sunday, with activities at the beach)
- Ladies' Day (usually Monday)
- benefit galas
- exhibition matches
Tickets available online from the event website: Monte Carlo Rolex Masters.
