The Liberty Open is set to return in 2026, reaffirming its role as a leading event for LGBTQ+ inclusion in tennis. Founded in 1993 by the Metropolitan Tennis Group (MTG) and sanctioned by the Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance (GLTA), the tournament will be held July 10–12 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York, home of the US Open.
More than 200 athletes of all levels are expected to compete across five all-gender divisions, with the tournament embodying the principle of 'Love All' — a term that in tennis signifies both the start of a match and a commitment to fairness and respect. 'Love All is both a tennis truth and a cultural value,' said Kevin Ko, Liberty Open Tournament Director. 'It represents the spirit of this tournament — competitive, inclusive, and grounded in respect.'
The event is supported by the USTA, whose partnership helps elevate visibility and opportunity for LGBTQ+ athletes. 'Our continued partnership with the USTA reinforces that LGBTQ+ players belong on tennis's biggest stages, and that inclusion strengthens the sport as a whole,' Ko added.
Beyond competition, the Liberty Open is deeply rooted in giving back. Proceeds from the tournament benefit The Trevor Project, the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ young people. LGBTQ+ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide as their peers. 'Sport can be a lifeline — especially when it creates belonging,' said Khai Nguyen, Communications Director of MTG. 'Supporting The Trevor Project through the Liberty Open is a tangible way our community shows up for LGBTQ+ youth.'
The tournament weekend will include social events such as the Players' Welcome Draw Party and Tournament Banquet. Registration opens on the GLTA Tournament website on March 14, 2026. 'We recognize the time, travel, and commitment it takes for players to be here,' said Seong-Moh Yang, Commissioner at MTG. 'We encourage every competitor to chase down the next ball, go for the next winner, and soak in the energy of this community.'
The Liberty Open stands as a powerful statement that LGBTQ+ athletes belong in tennis, fostering a space where players can compete openly and be seen for who they are.
