Wawrinka, Serena and Venus Williams receive US Open wild cards

Tennis veterans Stan Wawrinka, Serena Williams, and Venus Williams have been granted wild card entries into the upcoming US Open. The USTA announced the invitations on August 26, 2026, allowing the champions to compete on the New York courts once more.

Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam winner and the 2016 US Open men's singles champion, expressed his excitement on Instagram about returning to play in front of the New York crowd. This marks a significant moment for the Swiss player, who has indicated that 2026 will be his final year on the professional tour. Despite early exits at Roland Garros and Wimbledon this year, he will have one last Grand Slam appearance before retiring.

The legendary Williams sisters, Serena and Venus, will also feature in the tournament, competing in the women's doubles. Venus, a two-time US Open singles champion (2001, 2004), and Serena, a six-time singles champion (1999, 2002, 2008, 2012, 2013, 2014), have a storied history at the event. They previously won the US Open women's doubles title together in 1999 and 2009 and secured Olympic gold medals in doubles three times. Their last appearance together at the US Open was in 2022.

Serena Williams also recently competed in mixed doubles with Carlos Alcaraz, reaching the quarterfinals. The USTA confirmed that the Williams sisters are scheduled to play their first doubles match between September 3 and 4. This return adds a significant layer of star power and nostalgic appeal to the 2026 US Open.