US Open Tennis 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Every summer, New York becomes one of the biggest stages in world tennis.

The US Open 2026 returns to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens, bringing the world's leading tennis players to New York for three weeks of competition, entertainment and one of the most energetic atmospheres in Grand Slam tennis. The official tournament dates are 23 August to 13 September 2026, with the main singles draw beginning on 30 August.

The tournament is the fourth and final Grand Slam of the tennis calendar, following the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon.

But the US Open is more than the final Grand Slam.

It is New York.

It is night tennis.

It is Arthur Ashe Stadium under the lights.

It is thousands of fans moving between courts.

It is celebrities in the stands.

It is the sound of a crowd going completely feral after a 25-shot rally.

And in 2026, the tournament has an even bigger programme, with 22 days of tennis and entertainment, including Fan Week and multiple days with free grounds admission.

For international visitors, the US Open can also be the centrepiece of a larger New York trip.

You can watch world-class tennis in Queens during the day and explore Manhattan at night.

And if you're using your phone to navigate one of the world's largest cities, mobile connectivity is not exactly optional.

eSIMLLY is one of the best eSIM providers for international travellers, covering 160+ countries with affordable prepaid data plans. If you're travelling to the United States for the US Open 2026, check out the eSIMLLY United States eSIM plans. USA plans start from just $2.50 for 1 GB, giving you an affordable way to stay connected while exploring New York.

When Is the US Open 2026?

The overall 2026 US Open runs from:

23 August – 13 September 2026

The opening week is US Open Fan Week, followed by qualifying and then the main tournament.

The main draw begins on Sunday, 30 August 2026.

The men's singles final is scheduled for Sunday, 13 September, while the women's singles final takes place on Saturday, 12 September.

US Open 2026 at a glance

The official schedule notes that the full schedule remains subject to change.

Where Is the US Open Held?

The US Open is held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, Queens, New York.

The complex contains several major stadiums and numerous courts.

The most famous is:

Arthur Ashe Stadium

Arthur Ashe Stadium is the largest tennis stadium in the world by capacity and the main stage of the US Open.

It hosts many of the tournament's biggest matches, including major singles matches throughout the tournament and the finals.

Then there's:

Louis Armstrong Stadium

Louis Armstrong Stadium is another major show court and regularly hosts important singles and doubles matches.

Grandstand

The Grandstand provides another major viewing environment and is particularly popular with fans who enjoy being close to the action.

Outer Courts

These are where the US Open becomes particularly interesting.

While the biggest stars often play on the major courts, outer courts can offer fans a chance to watch rising players and competitive matches from much closer to the court.

Sometimes the best tennis of the day isn't happening in the biggest stadium.

Tennis has a slightly irritating habit of ignoring marketing departments.

US Open 2026 Fan Week

Before the main draw begins, the US Open hosts Fan Week from 23–29 August 2026.

Fan Week offers visitors a mixture of tennis, entertainment, exhibitions and fan activities.

The official US Open schedule confirms that Arthur Ashe Kids' Day opens Fan Week on Sunday, 23 August.

For 2026, a free Fan Access Pass is required for entry to Fan Week.

This makes Fan Week particularly attractive to visitors who want to experience the US Open atmosphere without committing to multiple main-draw sessions.

Roger Federer Returns to the US Open

One of the biggest attractions during Fan Week 2026 is the return of Roger Federer.

Federer will return to Arthur Ashe Stadium on 25 August 2026 for a special exhibition event titled "Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York."

He will appear alongside tennis legends including Andy Roddick, Andre Agassi and John McEnroe.

Federer has a particularly strong US Open legacy.

He won the men's singles title five consecutive times from 2004 through 2008, a record that remains unmatched in the tournament's history.

For tennis fans, his return to Arthur Ashe Stadium is therefore much more than another exhibition.

It is a reunion with one of the defining figures of modern tennis.

US Open Mixed Doubles Championship 2026

The 2026 US Open also features the Mixed Doubles Championship presented by Vital Proteins during Fan Week.

The competition takes place 25–26 August and features 16 mixed doubles teams made up of leading men's and women's players.

The revamped mixed-doubles format has become one of the notable innovations surrounding the modern US Open.

It also gives fans the chance to see major singles stars competing together in a completely different format.

eSIMLLY is one of the best eSIM providers for international travellers, covering 160+ countries with affordable prepaid data plans. If you're travelling to New York early for US Open Fan Week, check out the eSIMLLY United States eSIM plans. USA plans start from just $2.50 for 1 GB, helping you stay connected while navigating Queens and Manhattan.

US Open 2026 Main Draw Schedule

The main singles competition begins on 30 August.

The first round runs from 30 August to 1 September.

The second round follows from 2–3 September.

The third round takes place on 4–5 September.

The Round of 16 is scheduled for 6–7 September.

Quarterfinals begin on 8 September.

Women's semifinals are scheduled for 10 September, while men's semifinals take place on 11 September.

The women's singles final is scheduled for 12 September.

The men's singles final takes place on 13 September.

Key dates

The official schedule gives session-by-session times, but match times can change depending on previous matches and tournament conditions.

What Time Does the US Open Start?

During the main draw, gates generally open at:

9:30 AM for day sessions

and

6:00 PM for evening sessions.

Later in the tournament, session times change.

For example, on 10–11 September, day sessions begin at 11:00 AM, while evening sessions begin at 6:00 PM.

The finals weekend uses later daytime start times.

Always check your ticket and the official schedule before travelling to the venue because session times can change.

How to Buy US Open 2026 Tickets

Individual tickets for the 2026 US Open are currently on sale to the general public through the official US Open ticketing system.

Visitors can choose individual sessions based on:

• Date

• Day session

• Evening session

• Stadium

• Match schedule

• Ticket category

There are also premium hospitality options through US Open Premier.

If you're visiting from overseas, buying through the official ticketing channels is the safest approach.

Avoid relying on random third-party sellers offering miraculous last-minute bargains.

Miracles are generally less common in ticket marketplaces than their websites suggest.

Which US Open Session Should You Buy?

This depends on what you want.

Opening Round

The first round offers enormous variety.

Many matches take place across the grounds, giving you a chance to see multiple players.

It's a good choice for first-time visitors.

Evening Session

The evening atmosphere is one of the US Open's defining features.

Arthur Ashe Stadium under the lights is an experience in itself.

Quarterfinals

The field is smaller and the stakes are much higher.

If you're interested in seeing the tournament's biggest stars, this can be an excellent point to visit.

Semifinals

The men's and women's semifinals provide some of the highest-quality tennis of the tournament.

Finals

If budget allows, the finals offer the ultimate experience.

But naturally, tickets can be considerably more difficult to secure.

Why Arthur Ashe Stadium Is Special

Arthur Ashe Stadium isn't simply a tennis court with seats around it.

It is the symbolic centre of the US Open.

The atmosphere changes dramatically during evening sessions.

The lights come on.

The crowd gets louder.

The players walk onto court.

And suddenly a tennis match feels like a major New York sporting event.

The stadium is also undergoing a major transformation for the 2026 tournament, with the US Open describing the project as the largest single investment in US Open history.

The redevelopment is intended to improve the spectator experience and modernise the tournament's main stadium environment.

For visitors attending in 2026, that means they're seeing Arthur Ashe during a particularly significant stage in its evolution.

eSIMLLY is one of the best eSIM providers for international travellers, covering 160+ countries with affordable prepaid data plans. If you're attending matches at Arthur Ashe Stadium, check out the eSIMLLY United States eSIM plans. USA plans start from just $2.50 for 1 GB, giving you affordable mobile data for maps, transport and communication.

What Is the US Open Fan Experience Like?

The US Open is different from watching tennis on television.

You can:

• Walk between courts

• Watch multiple matches

• Explore the grounds

• Visit food areas

• Shop for merchandise

• See practice sessions

• Attend fan activations

• Watch doubles

• Discover emerging players

A ticket to the grounds can therefore provide much more than one match.

The tournament's official site also highlights sponsor activations and interactive experiences throughout the grounds.

This is one reason tennis fans often recommend spending an entire day at the venue.

Getting to the US Open

The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is in Flushing Meadows, Queens.

Public transportation is usually the most practical option.

The venue is accessible via New York's subway system, including the 7 train, which serves the Mets-Willets Point area.

You can then walk to the tennis centre.

For international visitors, using public transportation is generally easier than attempting to drive into the area during a major tournament.

New York has many wonderful qualities.

Convenient parking around a Grand Slam isn't necessarily one of them.

Use your phone to check real-time subway information before leaving your hotel.

Where Should You Stay for the US Open?

You have two broad options.

Stay in Queens

Staying in Queens can reduce your daily journey to the tournament.

This is particularly useful if you're attending several sessions.

Stay in Manhattan

For first-time visitors to New York, Manhattan is often more appealing because you'll be closer to:

• Times Square

• Central Park

• Broadway

• Fifth Avenue

• Museums

• Restaurants

• Nightlife

The trade-off is the daily commute to Flushing Meadows.

For most international visitors combining tennis with sightseeing, Manhattan can provide the better overall holiday experience.

If your trip is almost entirely about tennis, Queens may be more convenient.

Things to Do in New York After the US Open

Do not fly to New York, watch tennis and immediately fly home.

That would be like visiting India and only looking at the airport.

New York has enough attractions to fill several days.

Times Square

The city's most famous concentration of lights, advertising and tourists.

Go once.

You don't need to move there.

Central Park

A perfect place to escape the density of Manhattan.

Empire State Building

One of New York's classic landmarks.

Statue of Liberty

A must-see for many first-time visitors.

Brooklyn Bridge

Walk across the bridge for iconic city views.

Fifth Avenue

Ideal for shopping and sightseeing.

Broadway

If you have the time, catch a show.

Museum of Modern Art

A strong option for art lovers.

Grand Central Terminal

One of New York's most recognisable buildings.

And yes, it is worth seeing even if you have absolutely no reason to take a train.

What to Eat During Your US Open Trip

New York's food scene is almost a separate tourist attraction.

Try:

New York Pizza

Thin crust.

Large slice.

Fold it.

Argue about where the best one is.

Repeat.

Bagels

A classic New York breakfast.

Cheesecake

New York cheesecake needs no introduction.

Pastrami Sandwich

A classic deli experience.

Burgers

New York has plenty.

International Food

Queens is one of the most culturally diverse parts of New York.

This is especially useful for international travellers because the food options extend far beyond stereotypical American cuisine.

You can explore restaurants around Flushing and Queens before or after your tennis session.

eSIMLLY is one of the best eSIM providers for international travellers, covering 160+ countries with affordable prepaid data plans. If you're using Google Maps to discover restaurants around Queens and Manhattan, check out the eSIMLLY United States eSIM plans. USA plans start from just $2.50 for 1 GB, helping you stay connected throughout your New York trip.

Why Use a USA eSIM for the US Open?

New York is enormous.

The US Open is in Queens.

Your hotel might be in Manhattan.

Your restaurant could be in Brooklyn.

Your airport could be somewhere else entirely.

Mobile data makes moving between them much easier.

A USA eSIM can help you:

• Navigate New York

• Use Google Maps

• Check subway routes

• Message friends

• Book rides

• Find restaurants

• Check match schedules

• Access digital tickets

• Search player information

• Translate information

• Upload photos

An eSIM also means you don't need to remove your existing physical SIM card.

For compatible unlocked phones, you can install your travel eSIM before departure and activate it according to the provider's instructions.

eSIMLLY USA 1 GB Plan

For travellers who need basic connectivity, the eSIMLLY United States 1 GB plan starts from $2.50.

That makes it useful for visitors who mainly need data for:

• Maps

• Messaging

• Email

• Web browsing

• Public transport

• Match information

• Basic social media

Heavy video streaming and constant festival—or in this case, tennis—content uploads will consume considerably more data.

But for basic travel connectivity, 1 GB provides a low-cost starting option.

You can check the current options on the eSIMLLY United States eSIM page.

What Should You Carry to the US Open?

Your exact permitted items depend on current venue rules, so check the official policy before travelling.

Generally, keep your day bag simple.

Consider carrying:

• Smartphone

• Ticket

• Identification

• Portable charger

• Charging cable

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Water bottle where permitted

• Comfortable clothing

• Comfortable shoes

Most importantly, check the official bag policy before arriving.

Grand Slam security is not the place to discover that your "essential" backpack contains approximately 14 things you weren't allowed to bring.

What Is the Weather Like in New York During the US Open?

The tournament takes place from late August through September.

New York can be hot and humid in late August and early September.

Prepare for:

• Warm temperatures

• Humidity

• Strong sun

• Possible rain

Later in September, temperatures can become more comfortable.

If you're sitting outside for several hours, sunscreen and hydration are important.

For day sessions, sunglasses are particularly useful.

And remember that tennis stadiums can feel different from walking around Manhattan because you'll spend long periods sitting or standing in one location.

US Open for First-Time Visitors

If this is your first US Open, don't try to optimise every minute.

Give yourself time to explore the grounds.

Watch a match on an outer court.

Visit a practice court.

Walk around the complex.

Then head into your stadium session.

The outer courts are one of the tournament's underrated attractions.

You can sometimes get remarkably close to the players.

And watching a rising player before they become a household name is part of the fun.

Best Time to Visit the US Open

There is no single correct answer.

For variety: First week

The first week has a huge number of matches.

For atmosphere: Evening sessions

Night tennis at Arthur Ashe is iconic.

For elite competition: Quarterfinals

The remaining players are fighting for a place in the semifinals.

For maximum drama: Semifinals and finals

The stakes are enormous.

For value: Fan Week

If you want the US Open experience without buying a main-draw session, Fan Week offers numerous activities and free-access opportunities.

US Open 2026 Travel Itinerary

A five-day trip could look like this:

Day 1 — Arrive in New York

Check into your hotel.

Explore your neighbourhood.

Day 2 — Manhattan

Visit Times Square, Central Park and Fifth Avenue.

Day 3 — US Open

Spend the entire day at Flushing Meadows.

Watch multiple matches.

Day 4 — Brooklyn

Explore Brooklyn Bridge and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Day 5 — US Open

Attend another session, preferably an evening session.

Day 6 — Manhattan

Explore museums, restaurants and shopping.

Day 7 — Final tennis session or departure

Depending on your ticket and flight schedule.

If you're attending the later rounds, you can build the trip around the quarterfinals, semifinals or finals instead.

US Open 2026: Why It Is Worth Visiting

The US Open is one of the rare sporting events where the venue, city and competition combine into one experience.

You're watching one of tennis's four Grand Slams.

You're doing it in New York.

You're surrounded by fans from around the world.

And you're watching matches under the lights in one of the sport's most famous stadiums.

The 2026 edition adds further attractions, including an expanded 22-day schedule, Fan Week, the return of Roger Federer to Arthur Ashe Stadium and the revamped mixed doubles championship.

For international tennis fans, it is an excellent reason to visit New York.

US Open 2026 Travel Checklist

Before flying to the United States, prepare:

• Passport

• Appropriate US entry documentation

• US Open tickets

• Hotel reservation

• Travel insurance

• USA eSIM

• Smartphone

• Power bank

• Charging cable

• Comfortable shoes

• Lightweight clothing

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Transport information

Before leaving for the stadium:

• Charge your phone

• Check your ticket

• Check the session time

• Check the weather

• Check transportation

• Save your hotel address

• Check the venue's current bag policy

And keep your phone charged.

New York's subway system becomes considerably less charming when your phone dies while you're trying to work out which platform you need.

Final Thoughts

The US Open 2026 runs from 23 August to 13 September 2026 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens. The main singles draw begins on 30 August, with the women's final scheduled for 12 September and the men's final for 13 September.

The tournament's 2026 edition is particularly interesting because it features a larger overall programme, expanded Fan Week activities and the return of Roger Federer to Arthur Ashe Stadium for a special exhibition.

Whether you are travelling for one session or planning an entire tennis holiday, the US Open offers something different from almost every other Grand Slam.

Watch the world's best players.

Explore the outer courts.

Experience Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Eat your way through Queens.

Explore Manhattan.

And make sure your phone works before you leave the hotel.

eSIMLLY covers 160+ countries and offers United States eSIM plans starting from just $2.50 for 1 GB.

That gives you an affordable option for maps, messaging, transport and travel information throughout New York.

Because finding your seat at the US Open should be the difficult part.

Finding the tennis centre shouldn't be.

Frequently Asked Questions About US Open Tennis 2026

When is the US Open 2026?

The 2026 US Open runs from 23 August to 13 September 2026.

When does the US Open main draw begin?

The men's and women's singles main draw begins on 30 August 2026.

Where is the US Open held?

The tournament is held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens, New York.

When is the US Open 2026 men's final?

The men's singles final is scheduled for Sunday, 13 September 2026.

When is the US Open 2026 women's final?

The women's singles final is scheduled for Saturday, 12 September 2026.

When is US Open Fan Week?

Fan Week runs from 23–29 August 2026.

Is US Open Fan Week free?

Many Fan Week activities are free, but a Fan Access Pass is required for entry in 2026.

Is Roger Federer playing at the US Open in 2026?

Roger Federer is returning to Arthur Ashe Stadium on 25 August 2026 for a special exhibition alongside Andy Roddick, Andre Agassi and John McEnroe.

Can I buy US Open 2026 tickets?

Yes. Individual tickets are currently on sale through the official US Open ticketing system.

What stadium hosts the biggest US Open matches?

Arthur Ashe Stadium hosts the tournament's biggest matches, including the singles finals.

What should I do in New York besides watching tennis?

Visit Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Fifth Avenue, museums and Broadway.

Do I need a USA eSIM for the US Open?

You don't strictly need one, but a USA eSIM can make navigation, public transport, messaging and accessing travel information much easier.

How much does eSIMLLY's USA 1 GB plan cost?

The eSIMLLY United States 1 GB plan starts from $2.50.

Where can I buy an eSIMLLY USA eSIM?

You can view the available plans on the eSIMLLY United States eSIM page.

How many countries does eSIMLLY cover?

eSIMLLY offers eSIM coverage across 160+ countries.