Record-Breaking ASB Classic Delivers On And Off The Court

The 2026 ASB Classic has wrapped as the biggest and most successful edition in the tournament’s history, delivering record crowds, world-class tennis and a vibrant summer atmosphere that once again transformed Auckland into the place to be each summer.

Across 15 days at Manuka Doctor Arena, the ASB Classic welcomed fans from across Aotearoa and around the world, combining elite international tennis with premium hospitality, music, food and drink, and firmly cementing its reputation as one of the Southern Hemisphere’s leading summer sporting events.

On court, the tournament delivered standout performances across both the WTA women’s and ATP men’s fields. Elina Svitolina was crowned women’s singles champion, adding a 19th prestigious title to her career in front of enthusiastic Auckland crowds. The men’s singles title was claimed by 20-year-old Jakub Menšík, rounding out a compelling fortnight of tennis. Svitolina’s victory also marked a unique tournament milestone, with the Ukrainian star married to Gaël Monfils, who won the men’s singles title at the ASB Classic in 2025.

In total, 108 players from 31 nations competed at the 2026 ASB Classic, underlining the tournament’s growing international appeal and strength on the global tennis calendar.

Fan support reached unprecedented levels, with a record attendees passing through the gates of Manuka Doctor Arena over the 15-day tournament, representing an increase of over 19% on last year’s previous record attendance. Strong demand across both weeks resulted in 19 of the 22 sessions sold out and the highest overall attendance in the event’s history. The WTA Woman’s Week semi finals saw a new record for the site also with over 4,000 people attending the venue on that day. The brand new Fan Zone in Takutai Square was also a hit with locals and visitors alike with a 17% increase in patronage of the area across the tournament period.

Hospitality was a standout feature of the 2026 ASB Classic, with fans fully embracing the tournament’s premium food and beverage offering across the precinct. From The Serve to the newly introduced Lexus Terrace, the 1956 Club and corporate hospitality spaces, food and drink sales reached record levels over the fortnight, with 20,514 Aperol Spritz served, and 1,183 tennis ball desserts enjoyed, as fans soaked up the sunshine, entertainment and centre-court action that define summer at the ASB Classic. A whopping 5,000 truffle fries were sold, with $1 from each sale going to the Youthline charity.

Tournament Director Nicolas Lamperin said: “This year’s ASB Classic exceeded expectations in every area - from the quality of tennis and the atmosphere in the arena, to the hospitality, broadcast reach and fan engagement. It’s a reflection of the players, fans, partners, volunteers and staff who all play a role in making this tournament such a special part of Auckland’s summer.”

The ASB Classic continued its commitment to giving back, with over $112K raised for Youthline through fundraising initiatives such as ASB's iconic Lobbo activations, supporting vital youth mental health services across New Zealand.

SKY Sport produced 150 hours of television coverage throughout the tournament, broadcasting 52 centre court matches, 50 on-court interviews, 25 pre-match shows and a number of behind-the-scenes features, offering fans unprecedented insight to the event.

The ASB Classic’s digital presence surged, with social media content generating more than 20 million views, capturing the energy, personalities and moments that defined the 2026 tournament. Content featuring rising Filipina player Alexandra Eala proved particularly impactful, with multiple videos attracting millions of views and driving strong engagement from international audiences. The ASB Classic is proud to play a role in showcasing Auckland on the global stage, delivering strong international exposure that supports the work of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and Auckland Council in promoting the city to the rest of the world.

Volunteers once again played a critical role in the success of the ASB Classic. A total of 267 volunteers and 107 ball kids, spanning 11-88 years old, supported the tournament across a wide range of roles including accreditation, spectator services, drivers and player services. Many have been part of the event for decades, including Lenore Clark and Leith Hamilton who have both volunteered for over 25 years of service (and were recognised during the finals presentations). The tournament saw more than 2,500 volunteer shifts, with two volunteers travelling from overseas, and many travelling from other parts of Aotearoa, to be a part of the event.

Behind the scenes, tournament stringers prepared more than 1,000 rackets for players across the fortnight, while Lexus completed more than 2,000 player journeys, transporting athletes to and from the venue.

International players also embraced Auckland’s hospitality and attractions during their time in the city. Venus Williams enjoyed a whale watching tour, while Elina Svitolina and Sloane Stephens attended the All Blacks Experience. Ben Shelton and girlfriend Trinity Rodman dined at Nick Watts’ Masu, Magda Linette visited Amano and Onslow, and Iva Jovic and Emma Navarro experienced Wētā Workshop Unleashed. Casper Ruud enjoyed a round of golf at Royal Auckland and Grange, Alex Eala spent time at Mission Bay, and Dylan Gee took on the SkyJump.

The ASB Classic continued to champion emerging talent, with two rising tennis stars contesting the final of the Mānuka Doctor Road to the ASB Classic, reinforcing the tournament’s commitment to development pathways and the future of the sport.

With another record-breaking edition complete, the ASB Classic looks ahead to building on its momentum and welcoming fans back for another unforgettable summer of tennis in 2027.

© Scoop Media