Filipino-Canadian tennis star Leylah Fernandez will take the court beneath the crystal chandeliers of the Waldorf Astoria New York’s Grand Ballroom, joining a one-night tennis showcase that will transform one of the city’s most celebrated event spaces into a full-size court.
The Aug. 27 event will convert the hotel’s 15,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom into a tennis venue for clinics and showcase matches featuring Fernandez, Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton and Maria Sakkari.
The program, part of the hotel’s new Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club platform, is scheduled from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and will bring ATP and WTA Tour players into an unusual setting: a ballroom better known for galas, performances and high-profile social events.
Waldorf Astoria New York said the ballroom’s dance floor will be converted into a regulation-size tennis court for the one-night program. It will be the first time the hotel hosts live tennis in the Grand Ballroom.
Fernandez, a former U.S. Open finalist, will be among the event’s featured WTA players. The Canadian has developed a strong following in New York since her run to the 2021 U.S. Open final, where she defeated several higher-seeded opponents before losing to Britain’s Emma Radicand.
The Waldorf Astoria program will combine tennis with food, drinks and player-access experiences. Ticketed guests will receive entry to the showcase matches, culinary stations, premium open bars, a player meet-and-greet, event merchandise and a Guerlain gift bag, according to the hotel. Experiences begin at $1,500.
The hotel is also offering an overnight package that includes two invitations to the invitational, breakfast at Lex Yard and access to the evening’s match and culinary programming.
Five percent of event proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, with the contribution to be matched by the Hilton Global Foundation, the Waldorf Astoria said.
The event’s dress code is “Courtside Chic,” blending the formality associated with the historic Park Avenue hotel and the sport’s growing connection to fashion, entertainment and luxury hospitality.
Fernandez, Shelton, Paul and Sakkari are listed as participating players, although the hotel noted that appearances, schedules and programming are subject to change. Tickets and package information are available through Waldorf Astoria New York.
