ABN AMRO Open demonstrates the impact of annual events

The ABN AMRO Open, which was held at Rotterdam Ahoy for the 53rd time earlier this year, has once again made a significant contribution to Rotterdam’s economy and sporting experience. With an economic impact of €5.9 million on the city, businesses in Rotterdam continue to benefit from the event.

The tournament welcomed 139,556 visitors, no fewer than 91% of whom came from outside Rotterdam. This underlines the strong national value of major annual events. In addition, 40% of visitors said that watching world-class sport inspired them to become more physically active.

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Tournament Director Richard Krajicek said: "The ABN AMRO Open aims to make an impact in several areas. This ranges from bringing people together and inspiring visitors to become more active, to giving tennis fans the opportunity to experience the sport at the highest level, whether during the wheelchair tournament or the ATP tournament. The fact that 22% of our visitors are considering joining a tennis club reflects the growth of tennis over the past year.”

Highly rated

A total of 139,556 people visited the ABN AMRO Open, the second-highest attendance figure in the tournament’s history. Of these, 76,068 were general visitors. The remaining attendees were business guests who, in addition to watching the matches, visited the well-known VIP Village, The Club, or attended one of the many seminars.

Regardless of the type of visit, the tournament received a very high average rating of 8.3.

The event attracts visitors from across the Netherlands and abroad. In total, 91% of visitors travelled to Rotterdam specifically to attend the ABN AMRO Open. Almost a quarter indicated that their experience at the tournament had encouraged them to visit Rotterdam more often.

Economic impact

"The ABN AMRO Open once again demonstrates the importance of annual events to both Rotterdam and the Netherlands,” said Michael Zijlaard, Director of Rotterdam Topsport. "Year after year, we see not only a major economic impact, but also a significant social impact. Rotterdam is fortunate to benefit from the efforts of Rotterdam Ahoy and ABN AMRO. From children growing up in disadvantaged neighbourhoods and children with physical disabilities to older people experiencing social isolation, there is a place for every Rotterdam resident.”

The research was commissioned jointly by Rotterdam Topsport and Rotterdam Ahoy.

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