Mark Ein is the owner of the DC Open, an ATP and WTA 500 tournament starting on July 25. I spoke with Mark the week leading up to the tournament about how he has built the DC Open into one of the premier 500-level tournaments in the world.

We discuss doubles' role in the tournament, his passion for tennis, and plans for the 2026 tournament. Mark also shares his thoughts on the ATP doubles cuts.

Mark’s background in sports and business, starting as a ball kid at the tournament
Why he features star-driven doubles teams and actively recruits singles players into doubles
What the final week of tournament operations really looks like behind the scenes
2026 upgrades to the fan experience including stadium upgrades, merch expansion, and the new “front porch” viewing area
Why selling an all-day, all-week experience beats marketing individual players in tennis
The advantages of a combined ATP & WTA 500 level event and why it is rarer than fans think
How mic'd up doubles players can create must-watch social content and bring fans closer to strategy
Does ATP doubles cost his tournament money?

Mark has some candid responses, and I appreciate his drive to promote and innovate our sport, something tennis needs. Be sure to watch the DC Open all next week!

Learn more about Mark & follow:

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