The 2026 U.S. Open is already attracting attention beyond the tennis courts, with celebrities, athletes, musicians and fashion figures appearing during Fan Week at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.
Before the main tournament began, Fan Week brought qualifying matches, mixed doubles competition, exhibition events and entertainment to Flushing. The early days of the event also created a high-profile gathering that highlighted the U.S. Open’s position as one of New York City’s major annual sporting and entertainment occasions.
Star Power Arrives During U.S. Open Fan Week
Celebrity appearances began ahead of the opening round, with visitors attending matches and special events throughout the grounds. The tournament’s combination of elite tennis, live entertainment and New York City culture continues to make it a popular destination for public figures from sports, music, fashion and film.
One of the most notable moments came during a special exhibition appearance by Roger Federer. The former champion returned to Arthur Ashe Stadium for a competitive exhibition, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd. His appearance also drew several well-known guests, including Anna Wintour, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Kaia Gerber, Tory Burch and Savannah Guthrie.
The event demonstrated how the U.S. Open can transform major tennis moments into wider cultural events that attract audiences beyond traditional sports fans.
Music and Entertainment Add to the Atmosphere
Entertainment played an important role during Fan Week, with singer Tinashe and DJ Ruckus performing ahead of a mixed doubles championship match. Their appearance added to the festival-style atmosphere surrounding the tournament before the main competition officially got underway.
The entertainment programming is one reason the U.S. Open attracts visitors looking for more than a traditional sporting event. Fans can experience professional tennis while also encountering live performances, celebrity appearances and special activities around the venue.
Athletes From Other Sports Join the Crowd
Several prominent athletes were also spotted at the tournament. Soccer stars Kelley O’Hara and Crystal Dunn attended Fan Week alongside Kameryn Stanhouse, adding another connection between the U.S. Open and the broader sports community.
Serena Williams also returned to the spotlight around the tournament after her recent return to competitive tennis. The six-time U.S. Open champion made appearances during the lead-up to the event, generating additional excitement among tennis fans.
Her continued association with the tournament remains especially significant because of her long history of success at the U.S. Open and her influence on the sport.
Musicians and Actors Take in the Matches
The early celebrity list included several recognizable names from music and entertainment. Remy Ma appeared in a tennis-inspired look, while producer Jermaine Dupri attended during Fan Week. Rapper E-40 was also spotted watching the action.
Actors Da’Vine Joy Randolph and Dascha Polanco were among the celebrities attending the event, while Kaia Gerber and Homer Gere were seen enjoying the U.S. Open atmosphere during the opening days of the tournament.
Lin-Manuel Miranda and his wife Vanessa Nadal attended the special Roger Federer exhibition event, further highlighting the crossover between Broadway, entertainment and professional sports in New York City.
Fashion Figures Bring Style to the U.S. Open
Fashion has long been part of the U.S. Open experience, particularly as celebrity guests and public figures attend matches in New York City. Anna Wintour made an appearance during the early events, while fashion designer Tory Burch also attended the Roger Federer exhibition.
Celebrity appearances often attract attention not only for who attends but also for the style seen around the tournament. From tennis-inspired outfits to more formal looks, Fan Week offered an early preview of the fashion moments expected throughout the competition.
A Major New York City Cultural Event
The U.S. Open has developed into more than a Grand Slam tennis tournament. Each year, it brings together athletes, celebrities, entertainers, brands and fans at one of the world’s most recognizable sporting venues.
The 2026 edition is continuing that tradition, with early events already featuring major names from multiple industries. As the tournament progresses, additional celebrity appearances and special moments are likely to keep the event in the spotlight.
For New York City, the tournament also represents a major seasonal event that combines international sports with the energy and visibility of one of the world’s leading entertainment and cultural destinations. The city’s event calendar also includes other major seasonal attractions, such as the New York State Fair, which brings together rides, food and live events.
Conclusion
The early days of the 2026 U.S. Open have already shown why the tournament remains one of the most talked-about events on the New York City calendar. From Roger Federer’s exhibition appearance to performances by Tinashe and DJ Ruckus, along with appearances from Serena Williams, Anna Wintour, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Kaia Gerber and many others, Fan Week has delivered a strong mix of sports and entertainment.
As the main competition continues, the U.S. Open is expected to attract even more attention both on and off the court. For tennis fans and followers of celebrity culture alike, the tournament remains a major event where world-class competition meets the entertainment, fashion and cultural energy of New York City.
FAQs
The 2026 U.S. Open is being held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, New York City.
U.S. Open Fan Week takes place before the main tournament and includes qualifying matches, special events, entertainment and other activities for tennis fans.
The U.S. Open is one of the world’s most prominent tennis tournaments and has become a major New York City cultural event. Its combination of elite sports, entertainment, fashion and high-profile social events attracts celebrities from many industries.
