The Citi DC Open is the premier summer tennis tournament in the United States capital, bringing together top ATP and WTA players for a week of world-class competition on the hard courts of Washington, D.C. Held annually at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Rock Creek Park, the 2026 edition runs from 27 July to 2 August.
What is the Citi DC Open?
The Citi DC Open (formerly the Washington Open and Citi Open) is a combined ATP 500 and WTA 500 tournament that serves as a key warm-up event ahead of the US Open swing. The tournament features both men’s and women’s singles and doubles draws, attracting a strong international field eager to build form and ranking points during the North American hard court season. It is one of the longest-running professional tennis events in the United States, with a history stretching back to 1969.
When is the Citi DC Open 2026?
The 2026 Citi DC Open takes place from Sunday 27 July to Sunday 2 August 2026. Qualifying rounds begin on the opening weekend, with the main draw getting under way on Monday 28 July. The women’s final is typically held on Saturday, with the men’s final closing the tournament on Sunday.
Where is the Citi DC Open held?
The tournament is staged at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Rock Creek Park, Washington, D.C. The venue features a 7,500-seat stadium court alongside several outer courts, offering an intimate setting compared to the larger Grand Slam venues. Its location within the park gives the event a distinctive atmosphere, with the greenery of Rock Creek Park providing a scenic backdrop.
Key Contenders
The Citi DC Open regularly attracts major names from both tours. Past champions include Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Nick Kyrgios, and Alexander Zverev on the men’s side, while the women’s event has seen victories from Jessica Pegula and Paula Badosa. Expect a strong field of top-20 players using Washington as preparation for the Canadian Open and US Open later in the summer.
How to Watch the Citi DC Open
In the United States, the Citi DC Open is broadcast on Tennis Channel with streaming available via Tennis Channel Plus. International viewers can follow the action through their local ATP and WTA broadcast partners. Highlights and live scores are available on the tournament’s official website and the ATP/WTA apps throughout the week.
History of the Citi DC Open
The tournament was founded in 1969 as the Washington Star International and has undergone several name changes reflecting its title sponsors over the decades. It became a combined men’s and women’s event, elevating its status on both tours. The hard courts of Washington have witnessed memorable performances, including Andre Agassi’s three titles in the 1990s and the emergence of young American talent over the years. The event’s upgrade to ATP 500 and WTA 500 status cemented its position as one of the most important summer tournaments on the calendar.
Tickets
Tickets for the 2026 Citi DC Open are available through the tournament’s official website. Options range from general admission grounds passes for the early rounds to reserved seating for the stadium court. Premium hospitality packages are also available. Early-round sessions offer excellent value, with the chance to watch top players up close on the outer courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What surface is the Citi DC Open played on?
The Citi DC Open is played on outdoor hard courts, the same surface used at the US Open later in the summer.
Is the Citi DC Open an ATP or WTA event?
It is both. The Citi DC Open is a combined ATP 500 and WTA 500 tournament, featuring men’s and women’s singles and doubles draws at the same venue during the same week.
How do I get to the FitzGerald Tennis Center?
The venue is located in Rock Creek Park, Washington, D.C. It is accessible by car, with parking available nearby, and is also reachable via public transport on the Metro system, with shuttle services typically running from nearby stations during the tournament.
Can I watch the Citi DC Open for free?
While main sessions require tickets, qualifying rounds and some early practice sessions may offer free or reduced-price admission. Check the official tournament website for the latest information on ticket pricing and availability.
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