Top curlers from around the world have gathered in Saskatoon for the final Grand Slam of Curling event of the year. The 2025 HearingLife Canadian Open began with its first draw at Merlis Belsher Place on Tuesday and will conclude on Sunday with the men’s and women’s finals.
This event provides a unique opportunity for fans to watch Canada’s Olympic curling teams in action before they compete in the Milano-Cortina Winter Games in February. Additionally, it may mark the last appearance of veteran curler Brad Gushue in Saskatchewan as he is set to retire at the end of this season.
Following their victories at the Canadian curling trials last month, both Team Brad Jacobs and Team Rachel Homan have secured their spots in the upcoming Olympics and are participating in the competitions this week in Saskatoon.
Rachel Homan expressed the importance of this event for her team’s preparation, stating that every game is crucial practice for the challenges they will face at the Olympics. With an experienced team comprising Sarah Wilkes, Emma Miskew, and Tracy Fleury, Homan is optimistic about their chances of clinching a gold medal at the Winter Games.
Team Homan currently holds the top spot in the world women’s team rankings, while Team Jacobs is ranked third in the men’s category. Skip Brad Jacobs, who previously won gold at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, is back with a new team consisting of Ben Hebert, Brett Gallant, and Marc Kennedy. Gallant will also compete in the mixed doubles event at the Olympics with his wife Jocelyn Peterman.
Jacobs emphasized the team’s focus on being present and detached from results, which has contributed to their successful performances. The seasoned skip, feeling at his career’s peak at 40 years old, is determined to add another gold medal to his achievements. Despite their accomplishments this year, Team Jacobs is eager to secure a Grand Slam victory, a goal they are fiercely pursuing.