Washington Open 2026: Best players to watch and top bets

The Washington Open is back with a fresh look, a stronger field and plenty of exciting matchups as some of the world’s best tennis players prepare for the hard-court swing ahead of the US Open. 

Known as one of the biggest stops before the final Grand Slam of the year, the Washington Open gives players a chance to build confidence, test their form and make a statement on American hard courts. 

This year’s tournament promises plenty of action, with top ATP and WTA stars competing for one of the most historic titles on the calendar. From powerful young players chasing more silverware to experienced champions looking to return to the winner’s circle, there are several names to keep an eye on. 

A tougher men’s draw with no easy matches 

The men’s tournament has changed this year, with the main draw moving from 48 players down to 32. This means the opening rounds are expected to be much more competitive, with fewer chances for top seeds to ease their way into the event. 

Two big names, Daniil Medvedev and Felix Auger-Aliassime, withdrew before the draw was announced, but the tournament still features a strong group of contenders. 

One of the biggest opening-round stories involves Alex de Minaur. After winning the Los Cabos title, the Australian faces a difficult challenge against Stefanos Tsitsipas in his first match. Tsitsipas has dominated their previous meetings, winning 14 of their 16 matches against De Minaur. 

De Minaur will be hoping to rediscover his best tennis after a disappointing Wimbledon run, where he lost in the fourth round to Flavio Cobolli before taking time away from the tour. 

Ben Shelton leads the American challenge 

Ben Shelton enters the Washington Open as the second seed and one of the players in the best form heading into the tournament. 

The 23-year-old American has enjoyed an impressive 2026 season, winning three titles in Dallas, Munich and Stuttgart. Shelton’s game suits Washington perfectly, where quick conditions often reward aggressive players who can take control early in rallies.

Another American favourite, Taylor Fritz, arrives as the third seed after reaching the Wimbledon quarterfinals. Fritz has become one of the strongest hard-court players on the ATP Tour and will see Washington as an important opportunity to prepare for the US Open. 

Frances Tiafoe is another player who always brings extra energy when playing in front of home fans. The sixth seed is known for raising his level in big moments, and a possible quarter-final clash between Tiafoe and Shelton could be one of the most exciting matches of the tournament. 

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Young stars looking to make their mark 

The Washington Open also features a number of talented young players hoping to make a deep run. Lorenzo Musetti leads the next group of contenders as the fourth seed, while rising stars Learner Tien and Jakub Mensik add even more excitement to the draw. 

Arthur Fils is another player worth watching. The eighth seed faces NextGen talent Rafael Jodar in a first-round match that could be one of the most entertaining early battles. Jack Draper also returns to hard-court tennis after leaving Wimbledon early due to injury.

The British star will be looking to regain rhythm and build momentum ahead of the final Grand Slam of the season. 

WTA Washington Open: Pegula leads the favourites 

The women’s tournament has a strong lineup, with Jessica Pegula entering as the top seed and one of the biggest favourites. Pegula has a special connection with Washington, having won the title in 2019 and 2021. Her experience on American hard courts makes her a serious contender to lift the trophy again. 

The world No. 3 will be looking to take advantage of the opportunity after withdrawals from Marta Kostyuk and rising American star Iva Jovic changed the shape of the draw. Elina Svitolina is the second seed, while other leading names include Naomi Osaka, Jasmine Paolini, Diana Shnaider, Anna Kalinskaya, Madison Keys and defending champion Leylah Fernandez. 

Fernandez faces a challenging road if she wants to defend her title, especially with Kalinskaya also in the draw. A possible rematch between the two could create one of the most interesting storylines of the tournament. 

Venus Williams brings star power to Washington 

One of the biggest attractions in the women’s draw is the return of Venus Williams. The seven-time Grand Slam champion accepted a wildcard into the tournament and will bring experience, history and plenty of support from tennis fans. 

At 46 years old, Williams continues to inspire younger generations, and her presence adds even more excitement to the event. 

Emma Raducanu, who reached the semi-finals in Washington last year, will not compete this time, while world No. 2 Elena Rybakina is also absent from the field. 

Another player to watch is Alexandra Eala. The talented Filipino youngster continues to gain attention on the WTA Tour and will be hoping to impress against a strong group of opponents. 

Washington Open history and why it matters 

The Washington Open has a long and respected history in tennis. The tournament was created in 1969 by Arthur Ashe, Donald Dell and John A. Harris and has become an important part of the build-up to the US Open. 

Over the years, many tennis legends have lifted the trophy. Andre Agassi holds the record for the most men’s singles titles, winning the event five times. The youngest men’s champion in tournament history is Andy Roddick, who won the title in 2001 at just 18 years old. 

Bet on Tennis

With a competitive draw, rising stars and established champions all chasing success, the Washington Open is expected to deliver plenty of exciting tennis. Players like Ben Shelton, Taylor Fritz, Jessica Pegula and Naomi Osaka will all be looking to make their mark as the road to the US Open continues. 

For tennis fans, Washington offers plenty of opportunities to follow top players, discover new talents and enjoy one of the biggest hard-court tournaments outside the Grand Slams. Bet on tennis today and withness history on Bet.co.za.