The Bad Homburg Open has secured a strong partner for the future: SOLARWATT is now the presenting partner of the grass court tournament. The fourth edition of the tournament will take place in the Kurpark from June 22 to 29, 2024.
The start of a sustainable future – top performance and innovation
“As a pioneer in solar energy and photovoltaics, SOLARWATT is the perfect partner to tackle the challenges of planning and implementing a sustainable event”, according to tournament director Aljoscha Thron. The mission is to shape the future together towards a better tomorrow.
As part of the Bad Homburg Open powered by SOLARWATT, innovative solutions will be used to reach the next level of sustainability. In the upcoming years, photovoltaic modules installed on the course will enhance energy efficiency during the tournament week.
Along with our new presenting partner SOLARWATT, we are excitedly anticipating many energy-filled matches, sunny tournament days, and a festive summer atmosphere with a touch of Wimbledon in the Kurpark.
Interview with SOLARWATT CEO Detlef Neuhaus
“Energy, performance, power. We are both pioneers”.
“Mr. Neuhaus, we are delighted to welcome SOLARWATT as the new Presenting Partner of the Bad Homburg Open. What do you think
SOLARWATT-CEO Detlef Neuhaus
makes this “perfect match” so attractive?”
“Energy, performance, power – that applies to the Bad Homburg Open as well as to SOLARWATT. So, it really is a perfect match. We are both internationally oriented and yet rooted at home and close to the people. The Bad Homburg Open as a public tournament and festival, SOLARWATT with solar solutions – especially for homes and businesses. We are both pioneers. Bad Homburg has the oldest tennis club in Germany, and Solarwatt has over 30 years of experience as a pioneer in the photovoltaic industry.”
Improving the little things to get a little better every day!
“Power, performance, precision, and energy are all essential qualities in both the solar industry and professional tennis. Do you see any other parallels?“
“Absolutely! All these attributes have been the driving force and quality standards of Solarwatt for many years. Perseverance and grit are also essential, not just in the game itself, but during the years of training. In sports, as with us, success comes from working on the little things to improve every day.”
Bad Homburg: Special flair and beautiful city
“In recent years, players and spectators have raved about the Wimbledon flair and the special atmosphere in Bad Homburg’s Kurpark. What is the fascination of lawn tennis for you?”
” I enjoy participating in sports. In the past, I have practiced martial arts and climbing, among other activities. Top physical performance combined with maximum concentration, all while being outdoors. I see a lot of parallels with tennis. We at SOLARWATT and I personally have a very special relationship with Bad Homburg through our main investor, Mr. Quandt. I appreciate the special flair of this beautiful city.”
Cooperation with the Bad Homburg Open as a great opportunity and attraction
“With SOLARWATT as the new Presenting Partner, the fourth edition of the tournament promises to be even more exceptional. Please give us three reasons why you can hardly wait for the start of the event in June 2024!”
“At SOLARWATT, 2024 marks a new beginning as the sole sector coupler for homeowners in Germany. Our complete system offers affordable solar power from your own roof, environmentally friendly mobility, and a reliable heating supply from a single source. We have effective solutions to meet the need. Although they may not be cheap or quick, they are serious. To increase the recognition of the SOLARWATT brand, we will launch an image campaign throughout Germany. Cooperating with the Bad Homburg Open presents a unique opportunity.”
Climate-friendly and future-proof: experience already available in sports
“Do you already have experience in the sports industry?”
” We have helped many players position themselves in a climate-friendly and future-oriented manner. We are also active in the sports sector, including the Olympic Stadium in Berlin and VfL Bochum. In the Netherlands, we have been working with the Metec cycling team for years. This new partnership with the Bad Homburg Open is very exciting for us. The event in the Kurpark also fits perfectly with the opening of our new SOLARWATT location in Frankfurt.”
Supporting the tournament on its way to becoming a “green” event
“Your company’s motto and claim is ‘Together for a better tomorrow.’ How will you showcase your company as a partner in the Kurpark next summer? What can visitors expect?”
“For instance, we will showcase our environmentally friendly energy products during the Bad Homburg Open to support its transition to a ‘green’ event. During the tournament, we will demonstrate our products in practical use and offer background knowledge and specific advice to all visitors. It’s important to discuss and calculate the individual needs of each PV system. Our goal is to combine aesthetics with premium solutions for homeowners.”
Facts about the partner:
SOLARWATT – Pioneer of the solar industry
Founded in 1993, Solarwatt GmbH is one of Germany’s solar pioneers and a trailblazer for efficient self-supply with solar power, sustainable heat and electromobility. The company provides holistic solutions for home and business owners, including photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, and e-car charging solutions. Solarwatt manages the entire process from component production to PV system installation, support, and maintenance at several hundred locations throughout Germany.
FORMER US OPEN WINNER BIANCA ANDREESCU IS THE FIFTH MAJOR WINNER IN THE LINE-UP
The grass court season is officially underway – and the anticipation for the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt (22 to 29 June) is growing! Eleven days before the start of the upgraded WTA 500 tournament, there is another great piece of news to report: Bianca Andreescu, US Open winner in 2019, will be competing in the qualifying round with a wild card. The former world number four reached the final at Kurpark in 2022, where she only lost to the eventual WTA World Champion Caroline Garcia in a high-class match lasting 2:41 hours.
Five Grand Slam winners in attendance – super talent
Andreeva is also coming!
The standing ovation from the enthusiastic spectators on the Spielbank Bad Homburg Centre Court also left an impression on Andreescu. “This tournament feels like one of the 1000 category for many reasons. The mood and atmosphere are just great,‘ enthused the Canadian, who turns 24 in a few days’ time.
Andreescu is one of five Grand Slam champions with a total of eight major titles who will be serving at the fourth edition of the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt. Tennis fans can look forward to seeing reigning Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova, tournament ambassador Angelique Kerber (three Grand Slam titles), two-time Australian Open winner Victoria Azarenka, former number one Caroline Wozniacki and recent French Open semi-finalist Mirra Andreeva, among others. Many experts believe that the super talent, who recently turned 17, can make it to the top. Andreeva is currently ranked 23rd in the world.
The grass with a ‘face’: the famous 8 Wimbledon millimetres
Thanks to the WTA 500 upgrade, the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwattnow ranks in the highest category of German professional tennis tournaments and is also one of the most prestigious grass court tournaments before Wimbledon. The most important tennis event in the world (1 to 14 July) begins two days after the Kurpark final.
The Spielbank Bad Homburg Centre Court has already been given ‘its face’ in the last few days and has been marked by the greenkeeper. During the tournament, the ‘Lawn’ will be the exact length of Wimbledon: The famous 8 millimetres.
In addition to top tennis with Wimbledon flair, spectators can once again look forward to a varied and exciting supporting programme (including theme days) in the Baloise Park Village on Brunnenallee. Details will be announced shortly.
Tickets for the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt can be purchased HERE!
THE SPIELBANK BAD HOMBURG CENTRE COURT SHINES IN LUSH GREEN! THE FAMOUS 8 WIMBLEDON MILLIMETRES…!
The desire is clear: sunshine! And pleasant temperatures! That would be the ideal weather for the days leading up to the start of the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt (22 to 29 June 2024) from the perspective of the grass whisperers. And what climate would supervisor Oliver Stuhldreier and English greenkeeper Stuart Burridge prefer during the week of the tournament? The answer is clear: ‘20 to 25 degrees Celsius would be perfect – and no rain.’
Watering at dusk – double cut and exact Wimbledon length
Immediately after the end of the matches, the courts are watered every evening, not just in the morning. ‘So that there is more time to dry,’ explains Stuhldreier. During the important preparation phase, the grass is mowed every two days with a so-called double cut, i.e. once there and once back. The workload will then be increased to once a day.
At present, the cut length is still 10 millimetres, but during the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt, the ‘Lawn’ will be exactly the length of Wimbledon: The famous 8 millimetres!
In addition, the baseline will be widened from the current 5.0 centimetres to 7.5 centimetres, as is customary at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC). The chalk-based paint used for this line comes from England and is extra robust.
Did you know that…
…the measuring of the 23.77 metre long and 10.97 metre wide tennis court before the first marking is normally carried out with 3 people, 3 red ropes, 36 pins and conventional measuring tapes and takes about an hour?
…the actual marking with a handcart takes around 45 minutes?
…approximately 1.5 litres of a chalk mixture is required for the one-off line marking of a grass tennis court?
…the chalk mixture is also used to mark the pitches in Bundesliga football stadiums?
…the lines are redrawn after every second or third mowing of the tennis lawn?
FROM AZARENKA TO WOZNIACKI: FOUR GRAND SLAM CHAMPIONS WITH SEVEN MAJOR TITLES ARE COMING
Reigning Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova leads the select field of starters at this year’s Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt (22 to 29 June). In addition to the world number six, three other Grand Slam champions – tournament ambassador Angelique Kerber, Victoria Azarenka and wildcard holder Caroline Wozniacki – were in the 32-player draw when entries closed.
While some well-known players such as Caroline Wozniacki, former world number three Elina Svitolina and fan favourite Paula Badosa are celebrating their debuts at the upgraded WTA 500 grass court event, other familiar faces are obviously keen to return: With defending champion Katerina Siniakova (2023), former WTA World Champion CarolineGarcia (2022) and Angelique Kerber (2021), all previous Kurpark winners have registered for the fourth edition of theBad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt.
Wimbledon semi-finalists Tatjana Maria and Jule Niemeier receive Wildcards
The audience can look forward to a total of three former world number ones. One of them is a two-time Australian Open Winner Victoria Azarenka, who holds the record for the longest match in the Kurpark: Three years ago, her and Alize Cornet fought a thrilling round of 16 duel lasting 3:02 hours on the packed Spielbank Bad Homburg Centre Court.
Like Caroline Wozniacki and Paula Badosa, former Wimbledon semi-finalist Tatjana Maria also received a wildcard for the main draw of the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt. Jule Niemeier will start in the qualifying with a wildcard.
On the way to Wimbledon: top players rely on Bad Homburg courts
Marketa Vondrousova in particular emphasised that she wanted to use the “special quality” of the Bad Homburg courts to prepare “optimally” for Wimbledon. The grass court classic (1 to 14 July) begins two days after the Kurpark final in South West London.
Following the upgrade to a WTA 500 tournament, the winner of the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt will receive double the number of world ranking points (500) this year. The prize money has tripled to almost 1 million dollars following the prestigious upgrade. You can find the complete starting field HERE.
In addition to top tennis with Wimbledon flair, spectators can also look forward to a varied supporting programme (including theme days) in the Baloise Park Village on the Brunnenallee this year. Details will be announced shortly.
Tickets for the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt can be purchased in co-operation with Reservix HERE.
GRAND SLAM WINNER CAROLINE WOZNIACKI AND PAULA BADOSA START WITH WILDCARDS
Bad Homburg, the 25th of May 2024 – Former world number one Caroline Wozniacki and Paula Badosa are celebrating their debut at the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt (22 to 29 June 2024): The Danish Australian Open winner in 2018 and the Spanish fan favourite will be competing at the WTA 500 tournament in the Kurpark with wildcards. Two days earlier, reigning Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova had confirmed her participation in the grass court event on the historic grounds of TC Bad Homburg.
“As professionals, we love playing in packed stadiums”
The 33-year-old Caroline Wozniacki, who has been world number one for a total of 71 weeks, is already looking forward to seeing her good friend Angelique Kerber again. The tournament ambassador of the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt is making her Kurpark comeback after a baby break. “I can hardly wait to come to Bad Homburg for the first time! I’ve heard great things about the tournament from Angie,” revealed Caroline Wozniacki, winner of the 2017 WTA Championships. Above all, Angelique Kerber must have raved to her about the atmosphere and the ambience in the Kurpark. “It’s always something special,” emphasised Caroline Wozniacki, “to play in front of an enthusiastic crowd.”
Paula Badosa is also looking forward to the energy and the Wimbledon flair. “As professionals, we love playing in packed stadiums – and Bad Homburg seems to have a special tennis community,” said the former world number two, adding with a view to the most important tennis tournament: “For me, it’s the ideal preparation for Wimbledon. I am grateful to have received a wildcard for Bad Homburg.” The grass court classic on Church Road starts on 1 July, two days after the final in Kurpark.
Power mums on tour: Wozniacki is the best example of the new trend
Caroline Wozniacki returned to the WTA Tour in late summer 2023 after the birth of her daughter Olivia and son James – and, like Angelique Kerber, she is representative of a number of mothers who are now active again after taking a break to have a baby. “I want to show my children that you can realise your dreams. Regardless of age and role,” said the Dane, explaining her intention.
At last year’s US Open, Caroline Wozniacki reached the round of 16 in her second tournament after her comeback. The Big Apple is a good place for the daughter of a former professional footballer anyway: she has already reached the final at Flushing Meadows twice.
Paula Badosa has already won the WTA 1000 tournament in Indian Wells, among others. The 26-year-old, born in New York, feels comfortable on all surfaces and favours an aggressive baseline game.
Tickets for the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt can be purchased HERE in co-operation with Reservix.
THE REIGNING WIMBLEDON CHAMPION SERVES IN THE KURPARK: MARKETA VONDROUSOVA IS LOOKING FORWARD TO A “GREAT CROWD”
The Wimbledon winner is coming to Bad Homburg! Marketa Vondrousova has confirmed her participation in the WTA 500 grass court tournament in the historic Kurpark. And the world number six from the Czech Republic can hardly wait for her debut at the fourth edition of the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt (22 to 29 June). “I’m really looking forward to it. Especially to play in front of a great crowd. I’ve already heard a lot of good thinks about the tournament,” emphasised left-hander Vondrousova, who was the first unseeded player in the Open Era to triumph at Wimbledon in 2023.
Vondrousova full of anticipation for the “special quality” of the grass courts in the Kurpark
The silver medallist at the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo has long since established herself in the top ten of the WTA rankings and is one of the wider favourites at all major tournaments. Vondrousova will be on a very special mission at Kurpark: “I want to use the special quality of the courts to prepare as well as possible for my title defence at Wimbledon,” she announced.
Prehaps it is a good omen that Vondrousova will be celebrating her 25th birthday on semi-final Friday (28th of June). She would certainly be serenaded by the crowd on the Spielbank Bad Homburg Centre Court! And by winning the tournament at the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt, which has been up upgraded to a WTA 500 event, the 2019 French Open finalist could give herself a belated present.
Grass or Clay? For Vondrousova it’s Grass and Clay!
Vondrousova will be the first reigning Wimbledon champion to play on the historic TC Bad Homburg gorunds. And spectators can look forward to the all-rounder’s versatile game. The daughter of a former professional volleyball player feels just as comfortable on grass as she does on clay. In April, Vondrousova defeated Australian Open winner Aryna Sabalenka in the quarter-finals of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart.
The Czech proved that she is a force to be reckoned with almost five years ago when she became the first teenager since Caroline Wozniacki in 2009 to reach the final of a Grand Slam tournament at the French Open in Paris. It wasn’t quite enough back then, with Vondrousova losing to Ashleigh Barty. However, her big moment came last July – at the most renowned tournament in the world. Vondrousova demolished Ons Jabeur in two sets in the Wimbledon final. “I don’t know what just happened here,” said the underdog after fulfilling her childhood dream.
Vondrousova will also meet Angelique Kerber, the 2018 Wimbledon champion, at the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt. The tournament ambassador is celebrating her Kurpark comeback after her maternity leave. The upgrade to the WTA 500 event has tripled the prize money to almost 1 million dollars, and the winner of Bad Homburg will receive twice as many world ranking points (500) as before from this year.
BAD HOMBURG OPEN POWERED BY SOLARWATT WITH MANY HIGHLIGHT AND TOP FIELD OF PARTICIPANTS EXPECTED
A good four months before the first serve in the Kurpark, preparations for the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt (22 to 29 June 2024) are in full swing. After being upgraded to a WTA 500 tournament, the fourth edition of the grass court event on and off the courts promises to be a milestone in the tournament’s still young history.
Preisgeld steigt um das Dreifache auf knapp 1 Mio. USD – Topstars im Kurpark erwartet
Tennis fans can look forward to the strongest field of participants in the tournament’s history this summer – peppered with world-class players and Grand Slam champions. This summer, twice as many WTA world ranking points (500) will be awarded in the Kurpark as in previous years. Tournament ambassador and Wimbledon winner Angelique Kerber was the first to confirm her participation months ago. In the past, top stars such as world number one Iga Swiatek and WTA World Champion Caroline Garcia (winner in 2022) have thrilled the audience on the historic grounds of TC Bad Homburg.
Thanks to the WTA 500 upgrade, the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt now ranks in the highest category of German professional tennis tournaments and also belongs to the top tier of prestigious grass court tournaments before Wimbledon. At prize money level, this means a tripling to almost 1 million US dollars (923,000 US dollars) and a gradual increase in prize money to around 2 million US dollars by 2029 – in line with the WTA’s target of equalising prize money for men and women in the coming years (Equal Prize Money) as the first women’s sport in the world.
Die gestiegene sportliche Relevanz spiegelt sich auch in der Ausweitung der globalen TV-Übertragung in bis zu 168 Märkte wider. Auf nationaler Ebene wird die Live-Berichterstattung um zusätzliche Matches mit den bestehenden TV-Sendern – Eurosport und hr/ARD – ausgebaut. Durch den Einstieg der renommierten „Sportschau“ als zusätzliche Streaming-Plattform dürfen sich die Fans auf ein deutlich ausgeweitetes digitales Angebot freuen.
Summer festival in Baloise Park Village: music, entertainment & food trucks
This summer, there will once again be a varied supporting programme with a summer festival atmosphere for visitors to the Baloise Park Village – with exciting theme days for young and old and a musical entertainment programme. One of the highlights: The opening concert presented by Baloise on 22 June, where the band “Pfund” will rock the stage. As with last year’s celebrated gig by Tom Walker, admission is free.
On Brunnenallee, the extended food truck offer during the tournament week will enrich the tournament visit with culinary delights – festival atmosphere included! In the newly designed beer garden area in front of the Kaiser-Wilhelms-Bad, tennis fans will have the chance to watch selected live matches from the Spielbank Bad Homburg Centre Court on a screen as part of a campaign with MEINE BANK. The possibility of realising a public viewing of individual EURO2024 matches on the tournament grounds in the Kurpark is also being considered.
New grandstand on Match Courts 1 + 2 – enjoy top tennis up close!
The further development of the Fan Experience can also be felt on the Baloise Match Courts 1 + 2: an additional 320 seats will be created there with the help of a grandstand – the motto: experience and enjoy top tennis with Wimbledon flair up close! Access to the two courts, where top-class matches can be expected right from the start of the tournament week following the upgrading of the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt to a WTA 500 event, will continue to be free of charge.
Solarwatt and Bad Homburg Open plan sustainability measures
Together with the new presenting partner SOLARWATT, the Bad Homburg Open is already setting the course for sustainability this year and taking the first concrete measures. Among other things, the integration of photovoltaic modules at the Spielbank Bad Homburg Centre Court and in the Baloise Park Village is planned, which will enable the event’s electricity consumption to be made climate-neutral this summer, accompanied by further measures. The Solarwatt team from the new location in Frankfurt am Main will also be on site to provide tournament visitors with expert advice on all aspects of solar power, e-mobility, heat pumps and infrared heating.
Many thanks to TC Bad Homburg and Homburger TG
The tournament can continue to rely on its tried and tested partners: the oldest tennis club on the European continent, TC Bad Homburg, will continue to provide its picturesque grounds as the venue for the tournament. The successful co-operation with Homburger TG as the location for the three training courts for the players will also continue. Many members of both clubs have long been part of the Bad Homburg Open and their commitment makes a significant contribution to the success of the event.
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Aljoscha Thron (Tournament Director Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt): “It is important to us to maintain the boutique character of the tournament in all further developments. This is our unique selling point in the WTA calendar and will remain so in the future.”
Heiko Frasch (Managing Director Perfect Match): “We are very happy that we now have planning security for the coming years thanks to the upgrade to a WTA 500 tournament and look forward to continuing the success story of the Bad Homburg Open together with our partners.”
Alexander Hetjes (Lord Mayor of Bad Homburg): “Not only is the event an absolute enrichment for the citizens, the worldwide advertising effect is also enormous. We are happy and proud that the Bad Homburg Open has been upgraded and will remain with us for years to come.”
Holger Reuter (Managing Director of Kur- und Kongress GmbH Bad Homburg): “The excellent cooperation between the municipal structures and the organisers is a key factor in the success of the Bad Homburg Open. In addition, Spielbank Bad Homburg is an important and reliable player thanks to its continued financial support as tournament sponsor and stadium partner. The organisational challenges of this major sporting event in the listed Kurpark have been overcome and contribute significantly to its success in a unique setting.”
DAHLER BECOMES THE NEW PLATINUM PARTNER OF THE BAD HOMBURG OPEN POWERED BY SOLARWATT: ASPIRING FOR TOP PERFORMANCE
The Bad Homburg Open is delighted to be working with a strong partner: DAHLER is now a Platinum Partner of the grass-court event, the fourth edition of which will be held in the historic Kurpark from June 22 to 29, 2024. Success factors such as perfection and quality play a decisive role for the company, which specializes in brokering high-quality residential properties in prime locations.
“Thrilling atmosphere and impressive scenery in the Kurpark”
Interview with Florian Freytag-Gross (CEO – DAHLER):
We are delighted to welcome DAHLER as a Platinum Partner of the Bad Homburg Open. What does the company stand for and what parallels are there with tennis?
DAHLER specializes in the brokerage of high-quality residential properties in prime locations and has been setting standards in the industry for more than 30 years. Honesty, appreciation, responsibility and professionalism are our core corporate values and the promise to our clients that we are a reliable partner for their real estate assets. Our mission is to exceed our clients’ expectations. Regardless of whether someone wants to buy or sell an exclusive property.
When it comes to top-class tennis and providing our clients with first-class advice, we are united by the desire to always bring out the best, to develop ourselves further, to set new goals and to deliver top performance. All this, as well as the pursuit of innovation in the industry, are also our daily drivers.
How will DAHLER present itself at the Bad Homburg Open 2024?
Firstly, our partners will of course be there with their teams to make sure they don’t miss out on this special tennis event in Bad Homburg. We are also looking forward to offering our customers an unforgettable tournament week in the VIP area, the VIP lounge and the Park Village. All in all, the tournament is a fantastic event to present us and our brand in an exciting setting.
You have already visited the Bad Homburg Open several times in recent years – what are you most looking forward to and which player would you like to see in the Kurpark this summer?
After my trusting collaboration with tournament director Aljoscha Thron and ambassador Angelique Kerber over the last three years, I am delighted to be able to implement this project with DAHLER as well. For me, the event has become like a big get-together with friends and coming home to the impressive backdrop of Bad Homburg’s Kurpark.
The field of competitors will be very high-caliber again this year, but unfortunately I can’t be completely objective and impartial here and I’m most of all looking forward to seeing Angie Kerber play and win!
Do you have a memory of the Bad Homburg Open that you particularly like to think back on?
Over the past few years, countless positive memories of the Bad Homburg Open have accumulated. Especially when you consider the conditions under which the tournament was held for the first time in 2021 and the enormous development and growth that has taken place within a very short space of time.
This year’s next step towards becoming a WTA 500 tournament marks a new milestone in the history of the event and makes it even more important for everyone involved. But my absolute highlight of the past few years was definitely Angie Kerber’s victory at the first tournament in 2021.
That was pure emotion and goosebumps, you never forget that!
FROM THE SEASON 2024: BAD HOMBURG OPEN POWERED BY SOLARWATT TO BECOME A WTA 500 TOURNAMENT
Bad Homburg, 11 January 2024 – Great news before the start of the first Grand Slam of the year: Following a successful bid, the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt is the latest tournament to become a WTA 500 tier-event in the revised WTA calendar structure. The elevated status marks an important milestone in the tournament’s young history which has been warmly received as part of the prestigious grass-court season since its inaugural edition in 2021.
“The change in status is a huge vote of confidence by Wimbledon and the WTA in the tournament location Bad Homburg. For us, it is an important step into the future as an integral part of the prestigious grass-court season prior to Wimbledon,” Tournament Director Aljoscha Thron stated.
Debbie Jevans, Chair of the All England Club, said: “Since the tournament’s inception in 2021, the Bad Homburg Open quickly established itself as an event of the highest quality, well supported by capacity crowds and earning praise from the players. We are delighted this success has been recognised and rewarded by elevating the tournament to WTA 500 level. The enhanced Bad Homburg Open, alongside the UK and other European grass court events, will be integral to providing the world’s leading players with the best possible preparation for The Championships, Wimbledon.”
Key Facts WTA 500: Prize Money, Ranking Points, Player Field, Media Coverage
From summer 2024 onwards, fans and supporters of the Bad Homburg event may look forward to the following adjustments as tournament operates in the WTA 500 category: The prize money for the Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt (22. – 29. June 2024) will be tripled to almost $ 1 million (US dollars 923,000) with a clear pathway to equal prize money by 2027. In addition, -twice as many WTA Ranking points (500) will be awarded for the winner as in previous years. As for the player field, the revised WTA calendar will feature a strengthening of the top-tier WTA events, such as Bad Homburg, with a focus on delivering the best talent each week in a consistent and clear manner. A worldwide TV broadcast increase in up to 168 markets is guaranteed, which will put the tournament even more into the international spotlight.
Wimbledon-Champion Angelique Kerber dreams of a second Bad Homburg title in front of her home crowd
Tournament ambassador and three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber has already announced her participation for the 2024 event as part of her comeback season. In 2021, Angelique Kerber won the tournament premiere and thus created an emotional summer’s tale. “It would, of course, be a dream to build on that, especially in front of my home crowd,” said Angelique Kerber, who, after her maternity leave, has high ambitions for a second title at her home tournament in Bad Homburg.
SOLARWATT as the new Presenting Partner of the Bad Homburg Open
The Bad Homburg Open will embark into the future with a strong partner by its side, officially changing its name to Bad Homburg Open powered by Solarwatt. As a pioneer in the field of solar energy and photovoltaics, the partnership will create the perfect synergy to tackle the various challenges of planning and implementing a sustainable event for the future.
SOLARWATT IS THE NEW PRESENTING PARTNER OF THE BAD HOMBURG OPEN: SHAPING THE FUTURE TOGETHER
The Bad Homburg Open has secured a strong partner for the future: SOLARWATT is now the presenting partner of the grass court tournament. The fourth edition of the tournament will take place in the Kurpark from June 22 to 29, 2024.
The start of a sustainable future – top performance and innovation
“As a pioneer in solar energy and photovoltaics, SOLARWATT is the perfect partner to tackle the challenges of planning and implementing a sustainable event”, according to tournament director Aljoscha Thron. The mission is to shape the future together towards a better tomorrow.
As part of the Bad Homburg Open powered by SOLARWATT, innovative solutions will be used to reach the next level of sustainability. In the upcoming years, photovoltaic modules installed on the course will enhance energy efficiency during the tournament week.
Along with our new presenting partner SOLARWATT, we are excitedly anticipating many energy-filled matches, sunny tournament days, and a festive summer atmosphere with a touch of Wimbledon in the Kurpark.
Interview with SOLARWATT CEO Detlef Neuhaus
“Energy, performance, power. We are both pioneers”.
“Mr. Neuhaus, we are delighted to welcome SOLARWATT as the new Presenting Partner of the Bad Homburg Open. What do you think
SOLARWATT-CEO Detlef Neuhaus
makes this “perfect match” so attractive?”
“Energy, performance, power – that applies to the Bad Homburg Open as well as to SOLARWATT. So, it really is a perfect match. We are both internationally oriented and yet rooted at home and close to the people. The Bad Homburg Open as a public tournament and festival, SOLARWATT with solar solutions – especially for homes and businesses. We are both pioneers. Bad Homburg has the oldest tennis club in Germany, and Solarwatt has over 30 years of experience as a pioneer in the photovoltaic industry.”
Improving the little things to get a little better every day!
“Power, performance, precision, and energy are all essential qualities in both the solar industry and professional tennis. Do you see any other parallels?“
“Absolutely! All these attributes have been the driving force and quality standards of Solarwatt for many years. Perseverance and grit are also essential, not just in the game itself, but during the years of training. In sports, as with us, success comes from working on the little things to improve every day.”
Bad Homburg: Special flair and beautiful city
“In recent years, players and spectators have raved about the Wimbledon flair and the special atmosphere in Bad Homburg’s Kurpark. What is the fascination of lawn tennis for you?”
” I enjoy participating in sports. In the past, I have practiced martial arts and climbing, among other activities. Top physical performance combined with maximum concentration, all while being outdoors. I see a lot of parallels with tennis. We at SOLARWATT and I personally have a very special relationship with Bad Homburg through our main investor, Mr. Quandt. I appreciate the special flair of this beautiful city.”
Cooperation with the Bad Homburg Open as a great opportunity and attraction
“With SOLARWATT as the new Presenting Partner, the fourth edition of the tournament promises to be even more exceptional. Please give us three reasons why you can hardly wait for the start of the event in June 2024!”
“At SOLARWATT, 2024 marks a new beginning as the sole sector coupler for homeowners in Germany. Our complete system offers affordable solar power from your own roof, environmentally friendly mobility, and a reliable heating supply from a single source. We have effective solutions to meet the need. Although they may not be cheap or quick, they are serious. To increase the recognition of the SOLARWATT brand, we will launch an image campaign throughout Germany. Cooperating with the Bad Homburg Open presents a unique opportunity.”
Climate-friendly and future-proof: experience already available in sports
“Do you already have experience in the sports industry?”
” We have helped many players position themselves in a climate-friendly and future-oriented manner. We are also active in the sports sector, including the Olympic Stadium in Berlin and VfL Bochum. In the Netherlands, we have been working with the Metec cycling team for years. This new partnership with the Bad Homburg Open is very exciting for us. The event in the Kurpark also fits perfectly with the opening of our new SOLARWATT location in Frankfurt.”
Supporting the tournament on its way to becoming a “green” event
“Your company’s motto and claim is ‘Together for a better tomorrow.’ How will you showcase your company as a partner in the Kurpark next summer? What can visitors expect?”
“For instance, we will showcase our environmentally friendly energy products during the Bad Homburg Open to support its transition to a ‘green’ event. During the tournament, we will demonstrate our products in practical use and offer background knowledge and specific advice to all visitors. It’s important to discuss and calculate the individual needs of each PV system. Our goal is to combine aesthetics with premium solutions for homeowners.”
Facts about the partner:
SOLARWATT – Pioneer of the solar industry
Founded in 1993, Solarwatt GmbH is one of Germany’s solar pioneers and a trailblazer for efficient self-supply with solar power, sustainable heat and electromobility. The company provides holistic solutions for home and business owners, including photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, and e-car charging solutions. Solarwatt manages the entire process from component production to PV system installation, support, and maintenance at several hundred locations throughout Germany.
AN EXKLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ANGELIQUE KERBER: BAD HOMBURG OPEN ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF 2024
The countdown is on: After Christmas, Angelique Kerber will board a plane to Australia to celebrate her comeback after a year and a half out of competition. The three-time Grand Slam champion is already looking forward to her return. Especially in the summer it will be back-to-back, “with the Bad Homburg Open, Wimbledon and the Olympics. Those are my highlights in 2024,” said Angelique Kerber.
In an interview with the Bad Homburg Open homepage, the tournament ambassador talks about her goals, emotions on the court and a summer fairy tale.
It’s mid-November: For the past two decades, you’ve always taken a well-deserved vacation after a long season. This time is different!
Angelique Kerber: “Yes, absolutely! I can already feel the anticipation of being back on the court in Australia. I know that coming back will probably be the biggest challenge of my career, but that spurs me on. Even though it will be a long road and I will need patience, which is not one of my strengths (laughs). I’ve already started preparing for the new season, and this time it’s completely different. Also, because it’s taking three times as long as usual.”
Love for tennis as motivation – “unique” Kurpark atmosphere
What motivates you to return to the professional tour just one year after the birth of your daughter?
Angelique Kerber: “The love for tennis is something that has always motivated me and still does. That’s also the reason why I want to come back – to have that feeling on the court again, with all the emotions and the fans in the stadium. Of course, I have to be realistic and give myself time to get back into the swing of things after the long break. A lot of things will be different when I come back, not least my role as a mother, but I want to try everything and accept the challenge.”
From today’s perspective, what will be the highlights of your comeback year?
Angelique Kerber: “The season opener in January at the Australian Open will certainly be my first personal highlight. Even though it will be a cold start. Then it’s back-to-back in the summer with Bad Homburg, Wimbledon and the Olympics. Of course, I’m looking forward to playing for Germany again next year, playing in front of my home crowd and seeing a lot of familiar faces and fans on the tour. This is especially true for the Bad Homburg Open, with the whole team that has been building the tournament from the beginning. The atmosphere in the Kurpark is unique and enjoys a special reputation among the players on the tour.”
What are you most looking forward to and what are your goals, including at your home tournament, the Bad Homburg Open?
Angelique Kerber: “I have always said that I want to give myself the best chance when I come back. And at the moment I’m giving it my all. However, it would be too early to set concrete goals. But it’s also clear that I always have high expectations of myself when I go out on the court. Winning the tournament in Bad Homburg in 2021 was like a little summer fairy tale for me and the prelude to a really good run at Wimbledon and in the following weeks. Of course, it would be a dream to build on that next summer, especially in front of my home crowd. But for now, I’m concentrating on the start of the season in Australia.”
A new level of flexibility and spontaneity
Can you already assess your current performance?
Angelique Kerber: “You can’t compare a practice session with a match. Everything has gone according to plan so far, but I’m also realistic: I’m still at the beginning with my team. We still have a bit of time. I think I’ll be ready for the first matches when we fly to Australia after Christmas.”
If you had to name one area where you feel you are now in a better position as a player and person compared to before your maternity leave, what would that area be?
Angelique Kerber: “I think I’ve reached a new level in terms of flexibility and spontaneity in planning my day!” (laughs)