The Korea Open Tennis Championships, a prominent event in the WTA calendar, will return to Seoul from September 15 to September 21, 2025. Following the close of the four Grand Slams, this tournament marks the beginning of the Asian Swing for professional tennis players. Its upgraded status as a WTA 500 event since last year has undoubtedly raised its profile, attracting top-tier talent.
Key Players to Watch
Among the standout players is world No. 2 Iga Swiatek, a six-time major champion, who is expected to make waves following her recent quarter-final exit at the US Open against Amanda Anisimova. Anisimova, currently ranked No. 4 and fresh off her US Open runner-up finish, adds a layer of competitive intrigue. However, they aren’t the only names to note. The event will also feature world No. 11 Ekaterina Alexandrova, world No. 12 Clara Tauson, and Daria Kasatkina, last year’s finalist. Beatriz Haddad Maia, the defending champion, will also be back to defend her title. Other exciting participants include the illustrious Emma Raducanu and former Grand Slam winner Sofia Kenin, promising a tournament filled with fierce competition.
Tournament Format and Schedule
The 2025 Korea Open follows a well-structured format:
Schedule:
- Monday, September 15: First Round
- Tuesday, September 16: First Round
- Wednesday, September 17: Second Round
- Thursday, September 18: Second Round
- Friday, September 19: Quarterfinals
- Saturday, September 20: Semifinals
- Sunday, September 21: Singles Final, Doubles Final
This seven-day event provides ample opportunities for players to climb the ranks and earn valuable points towards their season totals.
Prize Money Breakdown
With a total prize pool of $1,064,510, the Korea Open promises not only prestige but also significant financial rewards. The winner will take home $142,000, while the runner-up will receive $101,000. The prize money escalates for players reaching the later stages of the tournament, broken down as follows:
- Winner: $142,000
- Finals: $101,000
- Semifinals: $59,000
- Quarterfinals: $28,695
- Round of 16: $15,700
- Round of 32: $11,300
This financial incentive is crucial for players looking to enhance their rankings and secure their positions on the tour.
How to Watch the Korea Open 2025
For fans eager to catch all the action, the match coverage will be accessible in the US through the Tennis Channel. There are also streaming options available via Fubo, which provides a free trial for new subscribers—an excellent opportunity for fans to experience the event without immediate financial commitment.
- TV Channel: Tennis Channel
- Live Stream: Fubo
Fubo allows viewers to stream not only tennis matches but also a wide range of live TV channels, including ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC.
Conclusion
As the Korea Open kicks off in September 2025, it promises to be an exhilarating start to the Asian Swing of the WTA tour. With a mix of established champions and emerging talents, spectators can expect high-stakes matches and memorable performances. The combination of a competitive prize pool and ranking points makes this tournament a key event for players aiming to end the season on a high note.
Whether you are a die-hard tennis aficionado or a casual viewer, the Korea Open presents an unmissable opportunity to witness top-level competition. Be sure to mark your calendars and tune in for what promises to be an unforgettable week of tennis action in Seoul.
