Waldorf Astoria New York Transforms Grand Ballroom Into Tennis Court

The event, titled the Ballroom Tennis Invitational, marks a bold shift in how the historic hotel utilizes its most storied space. Professional players Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez, and Maria Sakkari are set to compete in a series of matches, marking the first time the venue has hosted live tennis. Beyond the competition, the evening will feature a curated culinary program from Lex Yard, the hotel’s signature restaurant led by four-time James Beard Award winner Chef Michael Anthony, alongside champagne pairings from Moët & Chandon.

Tickets for the experience begin at $1,500, with packages offering access to showcase matches, player meet-and-greets, and specialized clinics. A portion of the net proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, supported by a matching contribution from the Hilton Global Foundation. The initiative represents a broader strategy for the hotel group to integrate luxury sports culture into its global portfolio, connecting its landmark properties with both spectators and active travelers through exclusive, social-driven programming.