Tennis is getting a glamorous New York makeover as the Waldorf Astoria New York prepares to transform its legendary Grand Ballroom into a full-size tennis court for one night only.
On August 27, 2026, the iconic Manhattan hotel will host the Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club: Ballroom Tennis Invitational, bringing professional tennis, luxury hospitality and high-style entertainment together beneath the ballroom’s famous chandeliers.
The event marks the official launch of Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club, a new global platform from Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts designed to celebrate racquet culture through distinctive destinations and experiences surrounding some of the sport’s biggest moments.
For the inaugural event, ATP and WTA stars including Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez and Maria Sakkari will take the court, bringing the excitement of New York’s late-summer tennis season into one of the city’s most historic venues.
The Grand Ballroom has hosted some of New York’s most memorable cultural and entertainment events, including the first Tony Awards and early Met Gala celebrations. Now, the ballroom is getting a decidedly different setup as its dance floor gives way to a tennis court.
The evening will combine showcase match play with culinary and beverage experiences. Guests can expect programming from Lex Yard, the Waldorf Astoria New York’s signature restaurant led by four-time James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Anthony. Moët & Chandon will also be featured, along with interactive chef stations, tennis-inspired cocktails and premium seafood offerings.
The experience is designed to make tennis more than a spectator sport, positioning it as a social occasion that blends athletics, fashion, food and hospitality.
“The Grand Ballroom has always been one of New York’s great stages, a room created for moments people remember,” said Luigi Romaniello, managing director of Waldorf Astoria New York. “For one night, we are doing something it has never seen before: bringing world-class tennis beneath the chandeliers.”
Tickets begin at $1,500 and include access to live showcase matches, curated food and beverage offerings, player meet-and-greet opportunities and exclusive event merchandise.
For guests looking to make a full weekend of the occasion, limited stay-and-play packages will include accommodations at the hotel, private tennis clinics and restorative treatments at the Guerlain Wellness Spa.
The event will also have a charitable component. Five percent of net sales proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, with the contribution matched by the Hilton Global Foundation. The initiative supports the organization’s work expanding mentorship and opportunities for young people and their families.
With professional tennis, luxury dining and one of Manhattan’s most storied rooms, Waldorf Astoria is betting that the future of racquet culture looks just as good off the court as it does on it.