Saddlebrook Resort: Iconic Tennis Destination Embarks on $92 Million Transformation
Apr 15, 2025
An exciting new chapter is underway at Saddlebrook Resort, the iconic 480-acre Tampa Bay-area destination known for world-class golf, tennis, leisure and group getaways. The sweeping $92 million transformation now in motion is reimagining the 451-room resort from the ground up – positioning it among the nation’s premier leisure and sports resorts.
The renovations – led by acclaimed architecture and design firm EoA Group – touch nearly every facet of the guest experience, from the lobby, accommodations, and restaurants to the event spaces, outdoor areas, and multiple swimming pools.
Renowned golf course architect Rees Jones will undertake a redesign of Saddlebrook’s courses, an integral piece of the resort’s expansive sports offerings that already include a digital golf learning studio, indoor hitting bay, BalanceLab and SAM PuttLab for advanced golf play analysis, 43 tennis courts, 8 pickleball courts, a fitness center for cardio and strength training, a spa, plus a planned multi-court Padel area, and more.
Source: Saddlebrook Resort
Saddlebrook is also home to the famed Saddlebrook Golf Academy, Hopman Tennis Program, and Saddlebrook Prep, long time training grounds for international sports legends.
The original owners of the resort acquired the Harry Hopman Tennis Academy in 1986 and moved it to Saddlebrook, which has been its home ever since. Champions like Jim Courier, Pete Sampras, Martina Hingis, Andy Roddick, Mardy Fish, James Blake and John Isner are counted among alumni, and today’s #2 ATP tour player, Alex Zverev, has trained at Saddlebrook since the age of 12.
The launch of Saddlebrook Preparatory School in 1993, combined with the resort’s impressive sports facilities, attracted student-athletes from around the world, blending elite training with academics.
Source: Saddlebrook Resort
In 2024, the Professional Tennis Registry and Professional Pickleball Registry relocated their international headquarters to Saddlebrook, reinforcing the resort’s reputation as a world-class training and sports destination.
“This renovation represents more than just an investment in Saddlebrook—it’s a commitment to restoring and elevating a legacy destination that has long been recognized as a premier setting for group travel, athletic training, and leisure,” said Camilo Miguel Jr., Founder & CEO of Mast Capital, the real estate and investment firm that owns Saddlebrook Resort in partnership with Amzak Capital. “Our goal was to thoughtfully enhance the resort’s offerings, blending tradition with innovation to create a destination where golf, tennis and relaxation thrive.”
“Our partnership with Mast Capital is rooted in a shared commitment to preserving Saddlebrook’s unique heritage while reinvigorating its role as a dynamic destination,” said Michael Kazma, President of Amzak Capital Management. “This renovation reflects our long-term vision to modernize the property and enhance its value for guests, the local community, and the broader Wesley Chapel area.”
Source: Saddlebrook Resort
"Our renovation is enhancing the guest experience with a blend of modern comfort and rich history,” said Raj Mohan, Managing Director of Saddlebrook Resort. “From updated guest rooms and dining options to revamped event spaces and recreational areas, every detail has been designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Whether guests are looking to lounge by the pool, spend a day on the green or courts, or host a productive corporate retreat, we’re creating an inviting environment that offers something for everyone."
Since 1981, Saddlebrook has been a leading destination for hospitality, golf, and tennis. Originally designed for conferences and conventions, the resort quickly recognized the growing demand for recreational activities that guests could enjoy with family and friends year-round. Golf and tennis were the natural sports of choice, and Saddlebrook set out to create world-class facilities to enhance the resort’s already established reputation for top-tier conferences and conventions.
In 2022, Mast Capital and Amzak Capital Management acquired the resort with a long-term commitment to its revitalization. In addition to the $92 million renovation with financing from Beach Point Capital, the property’s evolution includes a forthcoming town center with 465 luxury apartments, 25 townhomes, 75,000 square feet of retail and office space, and a pedestrian-friendly promenade. Adjacent development will also introduce a 120-unit townhome community and 25,000 square feet of commercial offerings—further enhancing Saddlebrook’s role as a dynamic hub of resort living, sport, and lifestyle.
Saddlebrook is part of Benchmark Resorts & Hotels, a collection of independent resorts and hotels operated by Pyramid Global Hospitality.
For more information, please visit www.saddlebrookresort.com or follow along on social media at @saddlebrookresort.
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Source: Saddlebrook Resort