Saddlebrook Resort Reclaims Legacy with $92M Transformation & Community Vision

Wesley Chapel, FL – Saddlebrook Resort, a historic athletic training ground and leisure destination near Tampa, Florida, has unveiled the results of a comprehensive $92 million renovation. The extensive overhaul, which includes redesigned guest rooms, new dining concepts, enhanced meeting spaces, and a reimagined golf course by Rees Jones, aims to reposition Saddlebrook as a modern, upscale destination for both sports enthusiasts and luxury travelers. The significant investment underscores a commitment from its owners, Mast Capital and Amzak Capital Management, to revitalize the 480-acre property and expand its appeal.

A Legacy Reimagined: Investment and Vision

The $92 million renovation is a substantial undertaking for Saddlebrook Resort. Mast Capital and Amzak Capital Management, who acquired the resort in March 2022, have driven this transformation. The project received a significant boost with a $72.5 million loan secured from Beach Point Capital Management in December 2024, with JLL Capital Markets facilitating the financing. The resort is operated by Pyramid Global Hospitality and is part of Benchmark Resorts & Hotels, with HEI Hotels and Resorts managing the property and Troon overseeing golf operations.

“This investment isn’t just about upgrading facilities; it’s about honoring the history of this place while creating a truly exceptional experience for future generations,” said a representative from Mast Capital. “We believe Saddlebrook can once again become a premier destination for athletes, families, and discerning travelers.”

Navigating a Competitive Landscape

Saddlebrook's renovation places it firmly within Florida's competitive luxury sports and leisure resort market. Top golf resorts in the state include the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge, PGA National Resort & Spa, Innisbrook, and the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort Naples. For tennis, competitors include the Omni Amelia Island Resort, Naples Grande Beach Resort, The Boca Raton, and Longboat Key Club.

Saddlebrook differentiates itself through its deep-rooted athletic legacy, offering 41 tennis courts across various surfaces and golf courses redesigned by renowned architect Rees Jones. The golf experience now features three interchangeable nine-hole layouts, complemented by a new 13-acre driving range opened in late 2024. Beyond sports, the resort introduces unique offerings like the “Play-by-Play Sports Broadcasting Experience” and expanded membership options to attract a broader audience.

“The resort is focused on creating a holistic experience,” explains a hospitality industry analyst familiar with the project. “They’re not just catering to golfers and tennis players; they’re creating a destination that appeals to a wider range of interests and demographics.”

Beyond the Greens and Courts: A New Community Vision

A key element of Saddlebrook’s long-term growth strategy is the planned town center development, which received approval from the Pasco County Commission in July 2023. This ambitious project, spearheaded by Mast Capital and Amzak Capital Management, will create a mixed-use community designed to integrate seamlessly with the resort experience.

The town center is set to include 465 luxury apartments, 25 townhomes, 75,000 square feet of retail and office space, and a pedestrian promenade. Additionally, the development will feature a 120-unit townhome community and an extra 25,000 square feet of commercial space within the property. This expansion aims to transform Saddlebrook into a dynamic hub of resort living, sport, and lifestyle, benefiting both guests and the local Wesley Chapel community.

“The town center is a game-changer,” says a local real estate expert. “It will not only create a vibrant community atmosphere but also attract residents and visitors who might not otherwise consider Saddlebrook.”

Honoring a Storied Athletic Legacy

Saddlebrook Resort has a distinguished history as a training ground for world-class athletes. Its Saddlebrook Golf Academy and Hopman Tennis Program have nurtured numerous talents.

Notable tennis legends who have trained at Saddlebrook include Pete Sampras, Martina Hingis, Alex Zverev, Jim Courier, Andy Roddick, James Blake, and Jennifer Capriati. In golf, prominent figures like K.J. Choi, Karl Vilips, and Aline Krauter are also associated with the resort's training programs. Further solidifying its status as an international sports hub, the Professional Tennis Registry and Professional Pickleball Registry established their global headquarters at Saddlebrook in 2024.

“The resort has a unique ability to attract and develop talent,” says a tennis coach who has sent players to Saddlebrook. “The facilities are world-class, and the coaching staff is exceptional.”

A First Look at the Revamped Experience

While a comprehensive collection of post-renovation guest reviews across all updated resort facets is still emerging, the completed elements are being met with positive anticipation. The renovation, largely finished as of November 2025, has introduced redesigned guest rooms, new culinary experiences, and an extensively revamped Super Pool. Golf course renovations are set to debut in Fall 2025, with a new sports tavern planned for early 2026.

New dining concepts include RARE 1981, celebrating Gulf Coast flavors, Palmhaus, serving Florida-inspired small plates, and BREW, offering artisanal coffee. “We wanted to create a diverse range of dining options that appeal to different tastes and preferences,” said a resort spokesperson.

Official statements emphasize a “reimagined guest experience” that blends tradition with innovation, aiming to create a vibrant retreat for modern travelers and athletes alike. The resort is actively promoting its “refreshed and reimagined” status, offering incentives for guests to experience the upgrades firsthand, signaling confidence in its revitalized offerings.

“The initial feedback has been incredibly positive,” said a hospitality consultant involved in the project. “Guests are impressed with the quality of the renovations and the attention to detail.”

Saddlebrook Resort’s $92 million transformation represents a significant investment in the future of the property. By honoring its athletic legacy, embracing a community vision, and delivering a reimagined guest experience, Saddlebrook is poised to reclaim its position as a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.