The iconic Florida resort unveils redesigned guest rooms and suites, reimagined culinary destinations, enhanced meeting venues, and a golf experience transformed by Rees Jones, creating a haven where golf, tennis, and leisure converge in harmony
WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla — Saddlebrook Resort, the Florida destination known for its legendary golf and tennis, diverse leisure offerings and unforgettable group experiences, today unveils its highly anticipated $92 million transformation. Spanning 480 acres of cypress-lined fairways, championship courts, and sun-soaked leisure amenities, the revitalized resort near Tampa blends Saddlebrook’s storied legacy in golf and tennis with a fresh vision of modern sophistication.
Guided by the creative vision of acclaimed architecture and design firm EoA Group, the comprehensive renovation touches every corner of the property, including new guest rooms, fresh dining concepts, vibrant meeting spaces, and a brand-new poolside experience. Renowned golf course architect Rees Jones thoughtfully redesigned Saddlebrook’s courses, a cornerstone of the resort’s expansive sports offerings that include 41 tennis with all four Grand Slam surfaces, eight pickleball courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a planned multi-court Padel complex.
Originally opened in 1981, the resort is also home to Saddlebrook Golf Academy, Hopman Tennis Program, and Saddlebrook Prep – highly regarded institutions that have shaped generations of international sports icons such as Pete Sampras, Martina Hingis, Alex Zverev, K.J. Choi, Karl Vilips, and Aline Krauter. In 2024, the Professional Tennis Registry and Professional Pickleball Registry established their global headquarters at the resort, further underscoring its reputation as an international hub for sports and performance.
“This remarkable transformation unveils the Saddlebrook of the future, where legendary sport and modern luxury come together seamlessly,” said Camilo Miguel Jr., Founder & CEO of Mast Capital, the real estate and investment firm that owns Saddlebrook Resort in partnership with Amzak Capital. “We’ve reintroduced Saddlebrook not just as a resort, but as a world-class destination that speaks to today’s global traveler and the next generation of athletes.”
An Elevated Welcome
The transformation reveals itself the moment guests turn onto Saddlebrook’s grand, palm-lined drive. A striking new arrival experience with lush landscaping sets the stage for what’s inside: a lobby filled with natural light, contemporary furnishings, and curated artwork.
Enhanced Guest Rooms and Suites with Modern Design
Tucked within clusters across the resort grounds, Saddlebrook’s 451 newly redesigned guest rooms and suites capture the essence of Florida living, ideal for families, groups, business travelers and extended stays. The refreshed accommodations embrace a clean, timeless aesthetic, blending warm wood tones, soft neutrals, and deep navy accents. Natural textures, curated artwork, and refined finishes draw inspiration from the surrounding cypress trees and the relaxed sophistication of the resort lifestyle.
Every accommodation opens to a private patio or balcony with calming views of the golf course, pool, or nature preserve. Deluxe Guest Rooms (400 sq. ft.) invite guests into a serene retreat, with plush king or double beds dressed in Egyptian cotton linens, goose-down duvets, and thoughtful in-room touches such as a Keurig coffee maker, spacious desk, and modern entertainment system. One-Bedroom Suites (800 sq. ft.) elevate the experience with a separate living room and dining area, along with fully equipped kitchens outfitted with sleek appliances, creating a true residential-style setting ideal for longer stays or travelers seeking added comfort. For families, groups, or extended getaways, the Two-Bedroom Suites (950 sq. ft.) provide the ultimate in flexibility, with a selection of bed configurations, ensuite baths and dressing areas for each bedroom, and expansive shared living and dining spaces designed for both relaxation and connection.
Dynamic New Dining Destinations
Saddlebrook’s renewal extends to its culinary scene, with four distinct venues designed to bring people together over food and drink. From refined dining to casual poolside fare, each concept captures a different facet of the resort’s spirit – whether celebrating a milestone, gathering with neighbors, or sharing a quiet morning coffee.
RARE 1981: The heart of Saddlebrook Resort’s vibrant new dining scene, RARE 1981 pays homage to Saddlebrook’s founding year and offers a menu rich in flavors of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Designed with warm lighting and wood-accents, the space sets the stage for thoughtfully crafted dishes like mojo glazed shrimp skewers, dry aged cowboy steak, seared snapper, Moroccan stewed chicken, and family-style sides including buttermilk mashed potatoes, smoked gouda grits and more – all highlighting regionally sourced ingredients. Whether it’s a special celebration, a business dinner, or a laid-back night out, the inviting atmosphere pairs beautifully with a bold cocktail lineup centered on American whiskeys, aged rums, and bright Florida citrus, complemented by a carefully selected wine list.
BREW: BREW is a go-to all-day café and marketplace set in Saddlebrook’s reimagined lobby. From artisanal coffee and fresh pastries to light bites and grab-and-go essentials, BREW fuels guests’ days — whether starting early on the golf course, gearing up for meetings, or taking a break between poolside lounging and evening plans. Its relaxed yet stylish atmosphere makes it both a welcoming homebase to start the day for the entire Saddlebrook community.
Palmhaus: Set against the sparkling backdrop of Saddlebrook’s iconic 500,000-gallon Super Pool, Palmhaus is the resort’s poolside bar and kitchen, embodying its laid-back, sun-soaked atmosphere. Florida-inspired small plates, from citrusy ceviche to handheld favorites and artisanal sandwiches, are paired with frozen cocktails and refreshing tropical crushes that celebrate the endless summer spirit. Perfect for quick breaks between golf rounds, leisurely afternoons, or golden hour gatherings, this open-air haven invites guests to relax, savor the flavors, and soak in the resort’s effortless energy.
The sports tavern: Rooted in Saddlebrook’s celebrated sports tradition, the sports tavern will capture the spirit of game day with a buzzing, high-energy vibe. With its large communal tables, oversized screens, and spirited decor, this space plans to transform the competitive spirit from the courts and fairways into a welcoming spot for connection and celebration. The menu will feature elevated pub classics that pair perfectly with a lineup of creative craft cocktails and local brews. Whether it’s a casual meetup or a victorious toast, this vibrant tavern will act as the resort’s modern clubhouse where locals, athletes, and guests come together to share good times and great food.
Golf Reimagined
Saddlebrook’s sporting legacy enters a new chapter with the redesign of its golf courses. Under the direction of architect Rees Jones, the original Saddlebrook Resort Course designed by Dean Refram in 1976 and the Palmer Course designed by Arnold Palmer in 1982 have been reimagined as three interchangeable nine-hole layouts with a new state of the art practice facility.
The fairways of the Pine, Oak, and Cypress courses now wind gracefully through Florida’s natural landscape, framed by towering cypress, pine, oak, and palm trees. The redesigned Pine and Oak courses feature enhanced USGA-spec greens, rebuilt tees, improved bunkers, and modernized irrigation systems. These improvements meet world-class standards for both championship and everyday play. The first phase of this innovative redesign debuts this month, introducing fresh challenges and new variety with every round.
“We are very pleased to have completed the first and second phases redesigning and reimagining the quality golf facilities at Saddlebrook Resort,” said Rees Jones, celebrated golf course architect. “Saddlebrook now has a world class practice facility and a completely re-envisioned 18 holes. The Pine and Oak nines have been completed and will soon be ready for members and guests to experience. The Cypress nine will be the third phase of the renovation and, when completed, Saddlebrook will have a classic, playable and enjoyable 27-hole complex.”
Rounding out Saddlebrook’s premium golf experience, the new 13-acre driving range, opened in December 2024, features double-sided tees, TifEagle™ putting greens, and advanced short-game practice areas just steps from the resort’s core amenities. Saddlebrook’s state-of-the-art Golf Training Center provides advanced instruction and practice facilities for players of every level to refine their game.
This next chapter in Saddlebrook’s golf legacy is a testament to its future-forward commitment: honoring tradition while evolving to meet the demands of modern players, from beginners to elite-level competitors.
A Reimagined Poolside Escape
Named in honor of the 1984 Super Bowl hosted in Tampa, Saddlebrook’s legendary Super Pool has been reimagined as an elevated hub for relaxation and recreation. Framed with lush new landscaping and private cabanas that offer guests their own private escape, the setting feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
Miami-based illustrator Gabriela Benatar created a custom mural for Palmhaus, inspired by Saddlebrook’s natural surroundings and botanical motifs. Her large-scale ceiling artwork weaves in playful nods to local flora, fauna, and movement, infusing the pool deck with energy and a sense of place.
More Than Meetings: Unforgettable Group Experiences
Earlier this year, Saddlebrook unveiled its fully renovated meeting spaces, now offering over 200,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, thoughtfully designed to accommodate meetings, conferences, retreats, and celebrations of all sizes and styles. Indoors, more than 40,000 square feet of flexible meeting space includes two signature ballrooms – Royal Palm and Pegasus – each divisible for breakout sessions. Updated chandeliers, modern carpeting, and technology upgrades, including high-speed internet and digital signage, blend sophistication with practicality.
Outdoors, 175,000 square feet of venues invite groups to gather in inspiring settings, from the Sports Village and Fountain Courtyard to expansive poolside terraces. Even Saddlebrook’s professional-spec 60-yard sports field doubles as a stage for team-building and unique activations.
Further enhancing its group offerings, Saddlebrook recently introduced a new Play-by-Play Sports Broadcasting Experience, a one-of-a-kind activation where guests can step behind the mic and into the fast-paced world of sports broadcasting – learning the craft from seasoned professionals while engaging with Saddlebrook’s storied athletic legacy in an entirely new way.
Membership as The Gateway to Saddlebrook
Saddlebrook’s renewal also ushers in a new era for its membership program. For the first time, the resort is opening its doors to individuals and families beyond the Saddlebrook community, offering multiple tiers that provide access to championship golf, premier tennis and pickleball facilities, and state-of-the-art fitness amenities. Members also enjoy preferred rates on dining, spa treatments, lessons, and retail, creating a year-round destination where connection, recreation, and resort living come together effortlessly.
“Saddlebrook has always been more than a resort – it’s a community,” said Michael Kazma, President of Amzak Capital Management. “Through this reinvention and expanded membership offerings, we’ve created a place where guests, residents of the communities that surround the resort, and athletes alike can connect, belong, and grow together for generations to come.”
Saddlebrook’s Walkable Village
Spread across 480 acres of natural Florida beauty, Saddlebrook is designed as a walkable village where movement and connection come together seamlessly. Shaded trails wind beneath ancient cypress trees, inviting guests to stroll at leisure, train for a marathon, or cycle through the grounds. Along the way, birdwatchers may spot cranes, hawks, turkeys, and ducks inhabiting the skies, wetlands, and trees.
Continuing along the nature trails guests will find the Sports Village, home to a state-of-the-art fitness center offering group classes, the latest equipment, personal training and more. Serious athletes can partake in the Sports Performance program, where skilled experts work with professional, collegiate and dedicated everyday athletes to assess and provide personalized nutrition and fitness training programs.
Wesley Chapel: The New Pulse of Tampa Bay
Just 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport and the region’s top attractions, Saddlebrook Resort enjoys a prime location in the heart of Wesley Chapel. Set against a backdrop of natural beauty, this rapidly expanding community has become one of Tampa Bay’s most sought-after destinations. Guests can explore premier shopping at The Shops at Wiregrass, enjoy live entertainment at KRATE at The Grove, or venture into nearby nature preserves for hiking and kayaking. Blending access to abundant dining, retail, and recreation with the tranquility of a resort retreat, Saddlebrook connects visitors to the dynamic spirit of Wesley Chapel and the greater Tampa Bay area.
“This expansive renovation reaffirms Saddlebrook’s position at the intersection of elite athletics and sophisticated resort vacations,” said Jeff Mayers, Managing Director of Saddlebrook Resort. “We’ve created a destination where families, friends and loved ones can relax, neighbors can gather, athletes can train, and groups can connect.”
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.
Discover the renewed magic of Saddlebrook, a home for champions, family, business, and leisure in perfect harmony. For more, visit www.saddlebrookresort.com or follow @saddlebrookresort on social.
About Saddlebrook Resort and Its Sports History
Since opening in 1981, Saddlebrook Resort has been recognized as a premier destination for hospitality, golf, tennis, and world-class events. Originally established as a conference and convention resort, it quickly expanded into recreation, creating first-rate golf and tennis facilities that attracted both leisure travelers and professional athletes. Home to the famed Harry Hopman Tennis Academy since 1986, Saddlebrook has trained champions including Jim Courier, Pete Sampras, Martina Hingis, Andy Roddick, James Blake, and John Isner, as well as today’s top players like Alex Zverev. Its renowned golf programs and on-site academy have supported the development of professionals such as Mardy Fish and Karl Vilips, while the launch of Saddlebrook Preparatory School in 1993 cemented its reputation as a global hub for student-athletes. In 2024, the Professional Tennis Registry and Professional Pickleball Registry relocated their international headquarters to Saddlebrook, reinforcing its enduring legacy as a world-class destination for training, competition, and hospitality.
About Benchmark Resorts & Hotels
Benchmark Resorts & Hotels is a curated collection of more than 50 distinct, independent properties by Pyramid Global Hospitality, a leading management company. Located in diverse destinations across the globe, Benchmark’s resorts and hotels reimagine immersive travel, inspiring guests to create memories born from meaningful exploration, authentic moments, and innovative experiences – no matter the occasion. Benchmark guests can earn complimentary gift cards, on-property perks, and destination experiences through the collection’s signature Mosaic Rewards program. Learn more at benchmarkresortsandhotels.com and connect on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
About Pyramid Global Hospitality
Pyramid Global Hospitality is a leading third-party hospitality management company known for delivering innovative solutions to some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts. Formed by the 2021 merger of three prominent hotel management companies, Pyramid now manages a portfolio of over 240 properties across the U.S., Caribbean, and Europe, with offices in Boston, The Woodlands, Texas, Cincinnati, and London. For more information, visit www.pyramidglobal.com.
About Mast Capital
Founded in 2006, Mast Capital is a leading, vertically integrated real estate investment and development firm, driven by a global vision to transform communities and reshape the real estate landscape. By seamlessly blending innovative investment strategies with visionary design, Mast Capital has cultivated a diverse portfolio exceeding $4 billion in total project capitalization. As one of Florida’s most dynamic development firms, Mast Capital currently manages twelve active developments with a substantial future pipeline, spanning residential condominiums, multifamily developments, luxury hotels, commercial properties, operating businesses, and land designated for development. In nearly two decades, Mast Capital’s profound expertise and value-driven approach has uniquely positioned the firm to adeptly navigate market complexities and identify untapped investment opportunities. The firm’s unwavering commitment to excellence and crafting timeless icons, has solidified its reputation as an industry pioneer, devoted to maximizing investment returns and ensuring the long-term success of each venture. For more information on Mast Capital’s portfolio, visit www.MastCapital.com.
About Amzak Capital Management
Founded in 1979, Amzak Capital Management is the private investment firm of the Kazma family, bringing over four decades of operational and investment expertise. Specializing in four major areas—real estate, fixed income, industrials, and healthcare—the firm strategically invests across the capital structure, including development financing, preferred equity, high yield debt, and equity. With a focus on sustainable growth and long-term value creation, Amzak serves as a trusted partner to real estate developers, investment firms, private equity sponsors, and operators.
Images: HERE (Credit: Courtesy of Saddlebrook Resort)
