A One-of-a-Kind Competition Environment

Weather and facility conditions are crucial factors influencing the success of an international competition. In this regard, Ariake Coliseum stands out as a globally rare venue. With a retractable roof and a seating capacity of 10,000, the coliseum allows competitions to be held regardless of weather conditions, thereby ensuring that events proceed as scheduled. In addition, the presence of multiple integrated practice courts on the same premises enables the athletes to prepare and fine-tune their performance smoothly, enhancing overall operational efficiency and the quality of competition.

“The schedule for international competitions is extremely tight throughout the year. Even a weather-related schedule change can affect the entire operation of subsequent competitions. In that sense, the Ariake Coliseum, with its roof, is a highly reliable venue.”

Renovations carried out in preparation for the Tokyo 2020 significantly improved athlete circulation, functional spaces, and overall accessibility. Lounges, rest areas, and dedicated spaces for each country and team have been established to support the smooth operation of team competitions. Restrooms and shower facilities were also renovated, and level differences were removed, creating a comfortable and accessible environment for all users.
Beyond the Ariake Coliseum, Tokyo boasts a high concentration of sports facilities located within approximately one hour of the city centre, equipped with advanced technologies and universal access as part of the Games legacy. Combined with the fact that most of these facilities are within walking distance of public transport, Tokyo possesses a globally rare strength in its urban sports infrastructure.

For more information, please visit the following link.
https://www.sports-tokyo-info.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/suru/basyo/18facilities/data/guidebook_en.pdf

A City that Offers Competition, Tourism, and Safety – All at Once

Tokyo's venue quality is not the sole reason its competitions are so highly regarded. One of Tokyo's key advantages lies in the high level of satisfaction among athletes and officials with their overall stay and experience in the city.

“At international sporting events, enjoying the host city is an integral part of the competition experience. Tokyo offers a wide variety of sightseeing, dining, and shopping opportunities, allowing participants to fully enjoy their time off. It is also a safe city where people can move around with peace of mind. These are significant advantages when choosing among the many potential host cities.”

In the past, the JTA has responded to athlete requests by setting up beauty and nail salons at competition venues. In addition, many athletes and officials have expressed interest in visiting dental clinics in Japan during their free time. As Tokyo provides a safe and secure environment, organisers are able to offer comprehensive support and hospitality to athletes and officials. Taken together, these factors have led many to express a strong desire to hold their competitions in Tokyo again.

Tokyo's Strong Support Elevates the Quality of Competitions

This competition was supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s International Sports Events Support Programme. More than just a subsidy, this support played a significant role in enhancing the overall quality of the competition.
This programme made it possible to present the Ariake Coliseum, known as “sacred ground” among tennis players, in a way that created a comfortable environment for both athletes and spectators. Moreover, the implementation of a free admission programme for Tokyo residents not only helped promote sports but also enhanced the value of the competition.

“Tennis is a sport that is best experienced live. At the venue, you can hear the players' voices and the sound of the ball being hit back and forth, creating a sense of immediacy that television simply cannot replicate. I hope more people will watch top-level matches, develop an interest in tennis, and begin playing themselves, thus helping grow the player base. Without this support, I think it would have been difficult to achieve this level of quality. It expanded our options from simply holding a competition to enhancing the spectator experience.”

Creating an Environment Conducive to Gender Equality and Athlete Welfare

In recent years, many international federations have placed greater emphasis on gender equality and athlete welfare.
“Tennis places a strong emphasis on gender equality, and female players have made remarkable contributions.”
“More female players are returning to competition following marriage and childbirth. The JTA provides support, including on-site daycare services at tournaments. We have introduced a system that can be utilised not only by athletes but also by family members and spectators.”

The Added Value of Holding a Competition in Tokyo

Smooth operations, world-class facilities, a safe and secure urban environment, and lasting memories of one's stay-few cities can offer all of these at once. Choosing Tokyo as a host city not only ensures the success of an international competition but also boosts satisfaction among all stakeholders involved.
“Holding a tournament in Tokyo allows participants to experience not just the competition itself but also the unique value of the city. This overall experience is what inspires IFs to choose Tokyo again for their future events.”

(Profile)
Nakagawa Jun
Joined the Japan Tennis Association in 2007. He served as the Tennis Sport Manager for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games and was appointed International Tournament Operations Manager in 2021. He is primarily engaged in the operations of the Billie Jean King Cup and the Davis Cup.