Waldorf Astoria New York will transform its Grand Ballroom into a full-size tennis court for one night on August 27, 2026. According to Hilton, the event will bring live matches beneath the chandeliers of one of the hotel’s best-known spaces.
The Ballroom Tennis Invitational will mark the debut of Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club, a new global platform centred on tennis, padel and other racquet sports. It is designed to connect the brand’s hotels with the wider culture surrounding sport, travel and social events.
For its first event, the hotel is starting with one of its most recognisable rooms. The Grand Ballroom, which has hosted the first Tony Awards and some of the earliest Met Galas, will temporarily trade its dance floor for a tennis court.
ATP and WTA players Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez and Maria Sakkari are expected to take part in a series of showcase matches. Hilton notes that player appearances, schedules and programming may still change.
The evening will also include a culinary reception led by Lex Yard, the hotel’s signature restaurant from chef Michael Anthony. Guests can expect Champagne from Moët & Chandon, interactive chef stations, premium seafood, tennis-inspired cocktails and limited-time dishes.
Tickets start at $1,500 and include the matches, food and drink experiences and player meet-and-greet opportunities. Exclusive event merchandise will also be available to purchase.
Five per cent of net sales from the event will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. The Hilton Global Foundation will match the contribution.
Several overnight packages are available for guests who want to extend the experience. Depending on the option, these may include accommodation at Waldorf Astoria New York, breakfast at Lex Yard, tennis clinics and treatments at Guerlain Wellness Spa.
Booking details are available through the official event page. Anyone interested should check there for updates before making plans.