One of Greater Cincinnati’s signature events kicked off earlier this week, as the Western & Southern Open places the Queen City onto the global stage. The Western & Southern Financial Group is serving as the tournament’s title sponsor for the 21st consecutive year, making it the longest title sponsor of the nine worldwide prestigious ATP Masters 1000 events.
“The Western & Southern Open has been a wonderful showcase for Greater Cincinnati,” said John F. Barrett, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Western & Southern Financial Group. “The event produces terrific economic impact for our region – roughly $70 million annually – and shines a global spotlight on our region. We are proud to be title sponsor again this year.”
The tournament has donated more than $11 million since 1974 to numerous nonprofits, including Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, the Barrett Cancer Center at the University of Cincinnati, and Tennis for City Youth. Western & Southern’s title sponsorship helps ensure that the tournament can continue these philanthropic endeavors.
“Western & Southern is committed to showcasing Greater Cincinnati and ensuring that it continues to grow,” Barrett said. “Investing in our great city creates excitement and makes it an ideal place to live, work and celebrate life. It’s important that businesses like ours, who are headquartered here, continue that investment to help ensure that top-notch talent can grow and prosper as a part of this community. That’s what we strive to do.”
Centered in Mason, Ohio, the Western & Southern Open is the nation’s oldest tennis tournament still played in its original city.