The Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club: Ballroom Tennis Invitational dazzled the world days before the kick off of the 2026 US Open.
The spectacular exhibition match on Aug. 27 in New York City was a remarkable to witness and left an impression that the epicenter of hospitality truly can make the impossible a possible reality. Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez and Maria Sakkari came together to display their pro sports skills and showcase a playoff that was anything but normal.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 27: Ben Shelton in action during a match at the Waldorf Astoria New York Ballroom Tennis Invitational at Waldorf Astoria Hotel on August 27, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Waldorf Astoria New York)
Inside the legendary hotel ballroom a full size court was built out for a match up of global scale. The legendary space that has hosted the regal receptions of royalty to some of the earliest versions of The Met Gala to the Tony Awards and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony paved out a space for a new type of soiree – one that is destined to be marked in books as a cultural icon of US Open events now and for years to come.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 27: Leylah Fernandez greets Sam Querrey and Andy Roddick at the Waldorf Astoria New York Ballroom Tennis Invitational at Waldorf Astoria Hotel on August 27, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Waldorf Astoria New York)
With the beautiful decor sparkling in the night with glittery chandeliers overhead, guests were energized with gorgeous moments that were born from the divine hospitality principles produced by the one-and-only Waldorf Astoria.
Hosted by former World No. 1 Andy Roddick, the invitational featured showcase matches between the tennis stars as former tennis player Sam Querrey served as umpire and commentator. More than 400 guests were in attendance, including Anna Wintour, Paige Paul, Matt Friend, Daniel Boulud and Gracie Cashman who sat courtside for the epic affair.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 27: (L-R) Tommy Paul, Leylah Fernandez, Anna Wintour, Maria Sakkari and Ben Shelton attend the Waldorf Astoria New York Ballroom Tennis Invitational at Waldorf Astoria Hotel on August 27, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Waldorf Astoria New York)
The divine event first presented an elegant courtside-inspired cocktail reception that featured championship-caliber culinary programming from the hotel’s signature restaurant Lex Yard by Chef Michael Anthony, curated beverage experiences, Champagne from Champagne house Moët & Chandon, interactive activations, and player appearances.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 27: Luigi Romaniello and Maria Loi pose with guests at the Waldorf Astoria New York Ballroom Tennis Invitational at Waldorf Astoria Hotel on August 27, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Waldorf Astoria New York)
The evening culminated with Leylah Fernandez and Tommy Paul claiming the Ballroom Tennis Invitational title. Fernandez revealed earlier in the day to press that it was for her a moment that was both tremendous and important.
“I am grateful and honored to be a small part of this history,” she said. “This hotel is historic itself and just to be a part of it now means so much.”
As part of the event’s purpose-driven mission, five percent of net ticket sales benefited Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, with the contribution matched by the Hilton Global Foundation.
This was a magical night that demonstrated the artistic beauty of perfect hospitality – a grand slam moment that only the Waldorf Astoria could make a reality.
Waldorf Astoria New York is bringing racquet culture to the table at its signature restaurant Lex Yard from Chef Michael Anthony with a limited-time menu of tennis-inspired food and beverage that channels the traditions of classic club dining. Now through September 13, guests can enjoy The Lobster Club, a modern take on a classic New York favorite, featuring crispy bacon, Little Gem lettuce and heirloom tomatoes as well as The Racquet Club, a refreshing, vintage-inspired cocktail that balances bright citrus, creamy chocolate notes and a cool mint finish and The Backhand Ballroom, a celebratory interpretation of tennis’ most iconic cocktail, reimagined as a honeydew and Champagne Bellini.
Bringing the spirit of the premier tennis event to life, The Racquet Club at Lex Yard, a tennis-inspired experience is taking over the hotel’s signature restaurant from Sept. 8 through 13. Timed to coincide with the tournament’s final week, the limited-run activation will feature live match viewings, elevated culinary and beverage offerings, Moët & Chandon Champagne, music, and interactive programming in a lively setting that celebrates the spirit of the season. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., The Racquet Club will welcome tennis enthusiasts, hotel guests, and locals alike, culminating in an exclusive Men’s Final Watch Party on Sept. 13, with ticketed experiences available via Resy.
