In brief
- Location: The Grand Ballroom of the Waldorf Astoria New York, located on Park Avenue in Manhattan.
- New: A pop-up transformation of the ballroom into a tennis court to create the Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club.
- Key players: Tennis players Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez, Maria Sakkari and chef Michael Anthony.
- Key figures: Event on 27 August 2026, tickets from 1,500 dollars and 5% of sales donated to a charity.
In brief
- On 27 August 2026, the Waldorf Astoria New York will transform its Grand Ballroom into a regulation-size tennis court beneath its crystal chandeliers.
- The event will bring together major players from the ATP and WTA tours, including Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez and Maria Sakkari.
- Tickets start at 1,500 dollars and include a gastronomic experience curated by chef Michael Anthony, as well as access to the Guerlain Wellness Spa.
- A donation of 5% of net sales will be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, matched by the Hilton Global Foundation.
The Waldorf Astoria New York: A Historic Icon in the Heart of Manhattan
The Waldorf Astoria New York is not just a hotel; for over a century, it has embodied elegance, luxury and history in the beating heart of Manhattan. Located on Park Avenue, this legendary palace has been the setting for key moments in American and international history, welcoming presidents, monarchs, celebrities and high-society figures. Its iconic Art Deco architecture, completed in 1931, makes it a work of art in its own right, with every detail telling a story of refinement and innovation. The establishment has always been a pioneer of luxury hospitality, setting the standards for impeccable service and memorable experiences for its guests from around the world.
Over the decades, the Waldorf Astoria has preserved its heritage while constantly reinventing itself to meet the expectations of a discerning clientele. Its reputation rests on a unique ability to combine the splendour of yesteryear with a resolutely modern vision of luxury. The Grand Ballroom, in particular, is a jewel of the hotel, a majestic room that has been the backdrop for countless prestigious events. From the debut of the Tony Awards to the Met galas, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremonies, this space has vibrated to the rhythm of New York's most grandiose celebrations. Its upcoming transformation into a tennis court, though temporary, is part of this tradition of innovation and audacity, offering a new dimension to its already rich heritage.
A historic event beneath the chandeliers
27 August 2026 will mark a singular date in the history of the legendary Waldorf Astoria New York. For the first time, the legendary maison will inaugurate a global platform dedicated to racket sports, metamorphosing its iconic Grand Ballroom into a full-scale tennis court. This initiative, named the Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club, does not merely organise a simple tournament; it aims to celebrate the vibrant culture of tennis and padel with panache through exclusive and spectacular events, which will be anchored at the very heart of the hotel group's most prestigious destinations. The idea is to merge sporting excellence with the luxurious lifestyle that characterises the brand.
- Event: Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club: Ballroom Tennis Invitational
- Location: Grand Ballroom, Waldorf Astoria New York
- Date: 27 August 2026
- Guest players: Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez, Maria Sakkari
- Culinary offering: Chef Michael Anthony (Lex Yard restaurant) and Champagne Moët & Chandon
- Ticket price: From $1,500
A pop-up tennis court beneath the chandeliers of the Waldorf Astoria New York
For an evening that already promises to be unforgettable at the end of summer 2026, the historic parquet floor of the Grand Ballroom will temporarily give way to a regulation playing surface, meticulously laid out beneath the majestic crystal chandeliers of the New York palace. This space, a true icon of Manhattan's cultural and social life, which hosted the first Tony Awards, the initial Met galas, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony, is preparing for a spectacular transformation. By hosting high-level sporting exchanges in a setting as unexpected as it is sumptuous, the venue adds a unique and bold new page to its legend. This initiative, both playful and elegant, perfectly embodies the palace's desire to reinvent the guest experience, as Luigi Romaniello, the establishment's general manager, enthusiastically points out. It is about creating a unique synergy between the venue's grandiose heritage and the contemporary energy of sport.
The technical and logistical feat of transforming such a space into a tennis court bears witness to the Waldorf Astoria's commitment to offering exceptional moments. It is not just about playing tennis, but about living an immersive experience where history meets modernity, where the thrill of competition blends with the discreet luxury of a legendary environment. The public will be invited to attend demonstrations and exhibition matches in an intimate and privileged atmosphere, usually reserved for the most exclusive events. The echoes of struck balls will resonate beneath the ornate ceilings, offering a striking contrast and a completely unique atmosphere for spectators.
A stellar line-up and high-flying gastronomy
On the pop-up court, the vibrant energy of the New York summer season will come to life thanks to the presence of major, renowned figures from the professional circuit, such as the talented athletes Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez and Maria Sakkari. Their participation guarantees a first-class sporting spectacle, where performance and agility will take centre stage, before a captivated audience. The opportunity to see these stars play in such an unprecedented setting reinforces the exceptional nature of the event, promising memorable rallies and an electric atmosphere.
Beyond the competition, the culinary aspect promises to be a true feast for the senses, orchestrated by chef Michael Anthony, a four-time winner of the prestigious James Beard Award. He will showcase the menu of his Lex Yard restaurant, renowned for its refined cuisine and seasonal ingredients. Guests will have the privilege of enjoying interactive food stations, offering a sophisticated tasting of premium seafood, masterfully prepared. To perfect this taste experience, a selection of tennis-inspired cocktails will be offered, all enhanced by the presence of the Champagne maison Moët & Chandon, a partner of choice for this exceptional event, embodying elegance and celebration. The alliance of high-level sport and excellent gastronomy reflects the Waldorf Astoria's desire to create a holistic and unforgettable experience.
A global platform anchored in racquet culture
Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club: A Global Vision of Sport and Luxury
The spectacular launch in New York constitutes the first chapter of an ambitious global programme, named the Waldorf Astoria Racquet Club. This innovative concept is designed to forge indestructible links between high-level sport, an exceptional lifestyle and luxury hospitality. It perfectly illustrates the brand's understanding of the evolving aspirations of its clientele. According to Jamie Kerr, vice president of luxury marketing strategy at Hilton, racket culture is establishing itself today not only as a leisure activity, but as a true contemporary expression of luxury. It combines physical excellence, social refinement and a certain idea of well-being, values intrinsically linked to the Waldorf Astoria universe.
This global initiative will draw on the heritage and existing facilities within the brand's exceptional portfolio, demonstrating the extent of its commitment to racket sports. Whether on the picturesque clay courts of Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, nestled in a historic setting offering breathtaking views of the Eternal City, or on the state-of-the-art padel courts of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, a true island paradise where luxury meets natural beauty. The vision also extends to the sophisticated infrastructure of Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, where desert elegance meets the glamour of the metropolis. These iconic destinations will make it possible to offer diverse racket experiences tailored to each environment, highlighting the versatility and adaptability of the concept. Before the grand gathering in New York, a pop-up activation in Sydney will precede this major event, marking the beginning of a series of global initiatives that position the Waldorf Astoria as a key player in the world of luxury sport.
Philanthropic commitment and bespoke stay packages
Premium tickets and exclusive experiences
Access to this exceptional evening will be via premium ticketing, starting at 1,500 dollars. This price grants full access to the exhibition matches, as well as all the high-flying gastronomic events, alongside privileged meetings and unique interactions with the professional players. It is a rare opportunity to rub shoulders with the tennis elite in one of the most intimate and luxurious settings, far from the usual large arenas. Beyond the event evening, the Waldorf Astoria New York also offers comprehensive stay packages, designed to fully immerse guests in the world of the Racquet Club. These exclusive packages combine accommodation in the establishment's refined suites with exclusive tennis clinics, offering personalised coaching sessions with professionals, as well as bespoke restorative treatments at the Guerlain Wellness Spa, for optimal recovery and deep relaxation after exercise.
On the solidarity front, this event is also marked by a significant philanthropic commitment. 5% of net ticket revenues will be donated to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America organisation. This association works to provide mentors for disadvantaged young people, helping them to develop their potential and build a better future. This commitment is further amplified by an equivalent contribution from the Hilton Global Foundation, which will match the amount collected. This double contribution illustrates the Waldorf Astoria's desire to reconcile the luxury experience with strong social responsibility, by actively supporting the mentoring and integration of young people. It is a concrete manifestation of the brand's and Hilton's commitment to making a positive impact on local and global communities, offering not only exceptional moments but also vital support to youth aid initiatives.
