Madrid
Bernabeu to host clay-court practice during Madrid Masters 1000
Real Madrid stadium will be used as a training base during the event in April
March 27, 2026
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Santiago Bernabeu Stadium underwent renovation from 2019 to 2024.
By ATP Staff
The Mutua Madrid Open will offer players an unusual practice option this year, when a clay court will be installed inside the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium from 23–30 April. The court will mirror conditions at the Caja Magica and be available to ATP and WTA players during the opening week of the event.
Better known as the home of Real Madrid, the Bernabeu is not typically part of the tennis calendar. Organisers have introduced it as an extra training site, giving players more space to prepare, while also making use of one of Madrid’s most recognisable venues.
“This year’s proposal will undoubtedly raise the bar even higher; initiating a collaboration with one of the best stadiums in the world, the Bernabeu, home of Real Madrid, and will place the Mutua Madrid Open in a unique category that includes only the best,” Tournament CEO Gerard Tsobanian said.
The stadium itself has a long history of hosting major events, including the 1982 FIFA World Cup Final and, more recently, an NFL regular-season game in 2025. Its flexibility has made it a regular host for non-football events in recent years.
Casper Ruud is the defending champion in Madrid, having captured his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title at the tournament last year. The fourth Masters 1000 event of season runs from 22 April-3 May, with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner set to lead the field.