The clay courts at TC Valère are being prepped, the banners are soon going up, and the stage is set for the most ambitious summer in the history of the Open de Sion.
From 16th to 22nd August 2026, the AXA Open de Sion officially makes its debut on the ATP Challenger Tour (ATP Challenger 50). After years of establishing itself as a premier stop on the ITF World Tennis Tour, this promotion elevates Sion into an elite bracket of international professional tennis, further cementing Switzerland’s standing on the pro circuit alongside established stops in Geneva, Gstaad, and Basel.
Whether you are a long-time supporter who hasn't missed a tournament since 2021 or a local sports fan planning your first visit to TC Valère, here is what this upgrade means for the 2026 edition:
A Higher Class of Competition
Moving to the ATP Challenger Tour brings an immediate leap in speed, power, and depth of field. Fans can expect to see world-class athletes ranked within the top 100–450 of the ATP rankings, all competing for vital ATP world ranking points and an increased prize purse. With the tournament scheduled just one week before the main draw of the US Open, the clay in Sion will be a high-stakes battleground for players building crucial momentum.
Rising Stars & Established Pro Talent
The Open de Sion has always been a proving ground—past champions and participants include rising stars who have gone on to break into the top 100 globally. On the ATP Challenger Tour, that pipeline becomes even direct. Expect a compelling mix of international tour veterans, hungry young prospects, and top-ranked Swiss talents looking to make their mark on home soil.
World-Class Tennis, Accessible to All
Despite the upgrade in status, the core ethos of the tournament remains untouched: community, passion, and proximity.
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Free Public Access: Watching professional-grade ATP tennis up close remains accessible to everyone.
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Front-Row Atmosphere: The intimate setup at TC Valère means you are never more than a few metres from the action, feeling the power of every serve and the grit of every slide on the clay.
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Festival Atmosphere: Amazing food at the club and events will ensure the club grounds remain the vibrant focal point of Sion’s summer sporting scene.
Save the Date
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Sunday, 16th August: Qualifying rounds begin (free entry)
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Tuesday, 18th August: Main draw action launches
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Saturday, 22nd August: Championship Weekend (Doubles & Singles Finals)
The countdown is officially on. Grab your sunglasses, rally your friends, and join us at TC Valère as we open an exciting new chapter of professional tennis in the heart of Valais!