The US Open 2026 marks the final Grand Slam of the tennis season, bringing the world’s best ATP and WTA players to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. Played on outdoor hard courts, the tournament is renowned for its electric atmosphere, packed night sessions, and fast-paced style of play that rewards aggressive shot-making and powerful serving.
Following the introduction of the expanded format, the main draw once again begins on a Sunday, giving fans 15 days of Grand Slam singles action, while Fan Week, qualifying, and mixed doubles take place during the week leading up to the tournament
The Tournament
Since becoming part of the Open Era in 1968, the US Open has produced some of the most memorable moments in tennis history. Held annually in Flushing Meadows, Queens, it is the only Grand Slam played entirely on hard courts in North America and traditionally serves as the final opportunity of the year for players to capture a major singles title.
The tournament is staged at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home to Arthur Ashe Stadium, the largest purpose-built tennis stadium in the world with a capacity of more than 23,000 spectators. The venue also features Louis Armstrong Stadium, Grandstand Court, and numerous outside courts where fans can watch established stars and rising talents throughout the fortnight.
Tournament Facts
- Venue: USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
- Location: Flushing Meadows, New York, USA
- Surface: Outdoor hard court
- Main Draw: August 30 – September 13, 2026
- Fan Week: August 23 – August 29, 2026
- Singles Draw: 128 players
- Doubles Draw: 64 teams
- Tournament Category: Grand Slam
Players to Watch
The men’s draw looks very different following the withdrawal of Jannik Sinner, who has been ruled out with a knee injury. That leaves Carlos Alcaraz as one of the leading favourites despite returning from a wrist injury that kept him out of action for several months. The defending US Open champion will be aiming to successfully defend his title in New York.
Alexander Zverev also enters the tournament among the main contenders after winning his maiden Grand Slam title at Roland Garros earlier this season. Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic has another opportunity to chase a record 25th Grand Slam singles title, while American hopes rest on players including Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton, both of whom have previously made deep runs at Flushing Meadows.
One of the form players heading into the tournament is Arthur Fils. The Frenchman claimed his first ATP Masters 1000 title in Cincinnati, boosting his confidence ahead of the final Grand Slam of the year and establishing himself as a genuine outsider for the title.
In the women’s draw, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka returns as the two-time defending champion and is once again among the favourites. Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, Iga Swiatek, Elena Rybakina, and Amanda Anisimova also headline a strong field, with several players arriving after impressive performances during the North American hard-court swing.
The Final Grand Slam of the Season
Every Grand Slam has its own character, but the US Open stands apart for its combination of world-class tennis, iconic stadiums, and unmatched atmosphere. The fast courts, demanding conditions, and passionate New York crowd consistently produce unforgettable moments, making the tournament one of the highlights of the sporting calendar and a key event for tennis fans and bettors alike.