The ATP Tour is roaring back to life in Canada, and the National Bank Open 2026 in Montreal promises an explosive return to Masters 1000 action! With the world's elite descending upon IGA Stadium, anticipation is at a fever pitch. Fans are eager to witness thrilling matchups and potentially historic moments at one of the tour's most prestigious events. This year's tournament features a stacked draw, blending seasoned champions with exciting young talent.
Key Tournament Insights:
- Alexander Zverev, fresh off a Roland Garros title, leads the charge for his second Montreal crown.
- Home favorite Felix Auger-Aliassime aims to ignite Canadian hopes as the second seed.
- Defending champion Ben Shelton brings his multi-surface title-winning form back to Canada.
- Former champions like Daniil Medvedev and rising #NextGenATP talent Rafael Jodar add to the stacked field.
Montreal Masters Kicks Off: Who Will Conquer IGA Stadium?
Zverev's Reign Continues? Top Seed Hunts Another Canadian Crown
World No. 2 Alexander Zverev arrives in Montreal in scorching form, chasing his second title at this esteemed Canadian event after his 2017 triumph. The Roland Garros champion boasts an impressive 44-11 season record, making him the man to beat. Fresh from a Wimbledon championship match appearance, Zverev kicks off his campaign against either Tallon Griekspoor or Lorenzo Sonego.
Felix's Fervent Quest: Can Auger-Aliassime Shine at Home?
Local hero Felix Auger-Aliassime, born in Montreal and raised in Quebec City, carries the immense hopes of a nation. As the second seed, this marks his highest seeding in seven main-draw appearances at his home Masters 1000. Despite a 5-7 record at the event, his recent Wimbledon quarter-final run signals a surge in form. He'll face Luca Van Assche or a qualifier in his opener, eager to make a deep run.
Shelton's Stride: Defending Champion Ready to Unleash Power
Big-serving lefty Ben Shelton returns to defend his maiden Masters 1000 title, won sensationally last year in Toronto. The 23-year-old American has enjoyed a stellar year, clinching three titles across hard courts, clay, and grass. Seeded fifth, Shelton launched his North American hard-court summer with a Washington quarter-final and will begin his Montreal defense against Jenson Brooksby or a qualifier.
Medvedev's Masterclass: Former Champ Lurks in the Draw
Another formidable former Canadian champion, Daniil Medvedev, is ready to make his mark. The 2021 Toronto winner brings his unique brand of tactical tennis to Montreal, seeking a strong start against either Botic van de Zandschulp or Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. Adding to the competitive field is 2022 Montreal champion Pablo Carreno Busta, ensuring a challenging path for any contender.
Beyond the Favorites: Threats, Comebacks, and Farewell Tours
Top-10 Challengers: De Minaur and Fritz Eye Masters Glory
Beyond the top seeds, several highly-ranked players are aiming for their own Masters 1000 breakthrough. Alex de Minaur, a finalist in Toronto in 2023, will be looking to bounce back strongly after a Washington quarter-final exit. Meanwhile, Taylor Fritz, a former Indian Wells champion, seeks to add a second Masters 1000 trophy to his collection, promising intense battles.
Canadian Contenders: Shapovalov's Surging Momentum
Alongside Auger-Aliassime, the Canadian contingent is strong, featuring four other local players. Most notably, Denis Shapovalov, a 2017 semi-finalist in Montreal, arrives with impressive momentum. He's fresh from a stellar week in Los Cabos, where he's chasing his second consecutive title. His aggressive game could electrify the home crowd once again.
Draper's Return: A Promising Comeback for the Brit
Fans will be keen to see the return of Britain's Jack Draper, a former World No. 4 and 2022 Montreal quarter-finalist. After a left arm injury hiatus since June, Draper will face Terence Atmane in his opening match. His powerful left-handed game, if fully recovered, could make him a dangerous float in the draw.
Monfils' Farewell Tour: The Veteran's Last Dance in Canada
Veteran showman Gael Monfils makes his final appearance in Canada as part of his farewell season on the ATP Tour. The 39-year-old, a semi-finalist in Montreal in 2019 and Toronto in 2016, always brings charisma and athleticism. Playing as a wild card, Monfils takes on Kamil Majchrzak, with the winner advancing to face 12th seed Learner Tien.
Jodar on the Rise: #NextGenATP Star Breaks into Top 20
Keep a close eye on #NextGenATP sensation Rafael Jodar. The 19-year-old is making waves, entering the tournament as a Top-20 player for the first time after his impressive Washington semi-final run. Jodar is set for his National Bank Open debut against either Marton Fucsovics or Corentin Moutet. His ascent signifies an exciting future for men's tennis.
Doubles Delights: Cash/Glasspool Defend Their Crown
Team Cash/Glasspool Aims for Repeat Success
In the doubles draw, defending champions Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool return, eager to replicate their 2025 Masters 1000 triumph. The British duo, currently 10th in the PIF ATP Live Doubles Teams Rankings, faces stiff competition. Joint-World No. 1s Harri Heliovaara and Henry Patten, alongside two-time event winners Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos, headline a stellar doubles field promising high-octane action.
