The Rolex Paris Masters has undergone a significant transformation in 2025, relocating from the historic Bercy Arena to the modern La Défense Arena. After 38 years at its previous venue, the tournament now boasts upgraded facilities and expanded court space, drawing mixed reactions from players and fans. Among those weighing in are former champions Daniil Medvedev and Karen Khachanov, both of whom have experienced the event in its previous and current forms.
Khachanov praises improvements despite nostalgia
World No. 13 Karen Khachanov, who won the Paris Masters in 2018, shared his thoughts on the new setup in an interview with Tennis Bolshoi. While he admitted missing the charm of the old venue, he acknowledged the tournament’s organizational upgrades.
“I would say that the Centre Court [Old Paris Masters venue] was one of the most beautiful in indoor tournaments in the world 100%, but the tournament itself was not very organised for a Masters tournament,” Khachanov said.
He highlighted the enhanced infrastructure at La Défense Arena, noting improvements in training facilities, hospitality, and overall layout.
“It seems to me that now in the new place everything looks luxurious. The main thing is that people like the court itself, it looks great. The centre court even looks bigger… There are more courts here at the main stadium, that is five courts, there we had three. So well, it’s better for training, the food is better, the improvements are clearly visible,” he added.
Medvedev echoes the sentiment
Daniil Medvedev, another former champion, also commented on the changes. While he didn’t express the same level of nostalgia as Khachanov, he acknowledged that the move to La Défense Arena marks a shift in atmosphere and player experience. According to reports from The Tennis Gazette, Medvedev noted that the new venue offers a more polished and professional environment, aligning with the standards expected of a Masters 1000 event.
A tournament redefined
The relocation has sparked debate among players and fans, with some lamenting the loss of tradition and others embracing the modernized setup. With five courts now available for training and competition, and improved amenities across the board, the Paris Masters appears poised to redefine its identity in the ATP calendar.
As the tournament unfolds, the feedback from top players like Khachanov and Medvedev will continue to shape perceptions of this new chapter in Paris tennis.
ATP Paris - Daniil Medvedev's projected path
Daniil Medvedev in 2025
Currently the world no.13, Daniil played his last match on the 23rd of October when he lost to world no.32 Corentin Moutet 7-6(3) 6-4 in the 2nd round in Vienna (draw).
Currently, during this year the Russian has a composed 39-22 match record. This year, Daniil conquered 1 title in Almaty. The Russian was the finalist in Halle.
ATP Paris - Karen Khachanov's projected path
Khachanov in Paris, ranking, and results in 2025
At the moment ranked no.14, the Russian has achieved an overall 31-23 win-loss record in 2025. Khachanov is playing in Paris where he conquered the world no.71 Ethan Quinn 6-1 6-1.
Khachanov got to the final in Toronto (National Bank Open).
Karen won 7 titles in his career: 3 on hard courts and 4 on indoor courts. (See the list of his titles)
He is also scheduled to play in Athens (Hellenic Championship) on the 2nd of November and () on the 30th of December.
Daniil Medvedev and Karen Khachanov fought against each other 9 times. Their head to head is 7-2 for Medvedev.