Where Grand Slams Meet Grand Glamour: A Night to Remember
Opening Night Spectacle: Stars Descend on the US Open
The 2026 US Open began with a flourish, attracting a host of celebrities to its opening singles main draw on Sunday. Despite the challenging heat and humidity, a dazzling array of personalities, including Emma Roberts, Tate McRae, Orlando Bloom, Brandy, and Paul Anthony Kelly, were present to experience the electric atmosphere of the night's extended match.
First-Timer's Thrill: Paul Anthony Kelly's US Open Debut
For actor Paul Anthony Kelly, it marked his inaugural visit to the US Open, an experience he described as "so fun—a lot of back and forth." His first attendance at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center saw an intense five-set battle unfold between Argentina's Mariano Navone and Novak Djokovic, stretching late into the night. Djokovic, to many's surprise, was defeated by the top-50 ranked player. Kelly, who admitted to only occasionally watching tennis, expressed his enjoyment of live sporting events and the energy of being part of such a significant occasion, finding it "so nice to be a part of it."
Echoes of the Past: Kennedy's Love for Live Sports
Kelly's appreciation for live sports resonated with the passion of John F. Kennedy Jr., whom he portrayed in FX's "Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette." Kennedy himself was a regular at the US Open throughout the 1990s, even attending matches just days before his private wedding. Kelly acknowledged this historical connection, stating, "He was everywhere. I'm familiar with his fandom of sports—tennis and basketball. I learned a lot about that guy."
Exclusive VIP Experience: Indulgence at the Moët & Chandon Suite
During the lengthy four-hour, 36-minute match, attending celebrities found refuge and luxury in the newly re-imagined Moët & Chandon Club de Tennis Suite. Guests savored gourmet lobster rolls and the distinctive Moët Serve, a signature champagne cocktail artfully presented with fresh limes resembling tennis balls, served in miniature tennis ball canister-inspired cans.
A Star-Studded Encounter: Kelly and Roberts Reunite
Paul Anthony Kelly, capturing the moments with candid Polaroids, reconnected with his new "American Horror Story" co-star, Emma Roberts, stylishly dressed in Ferragamo. Roberts, recently featured as a Vogue Weddings bride, joined Kelly in the newly unveiled 13th season of the show. Kelly, who has been seen with blonde hair in recent paparazzi photos for his role, playfully gestured to his natural hair, remarking on the transformation. He expressed his excitement about inhabiting a character with blonde hair, viewing it as an additional layer to immerse himself in the role.
Honoring Philanthropy: The Opening Night Gala
Preceding the evening match, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) hosted its annual Opening Night Gala at the Chase Center on the grounds. Gayle King presided over the dinner, where former champion Sloane Stephens received the prestigious Serving Up Dreams Award. This honor recognized her significant contributions to enriching under-resourced communities through tennis and education, particularly through her Foundation established in 2013 with her mother, Sybil Smith.
Sloane Stephens: A Tearful Acceptance and Inspiring Mission
A visibly emotional Sloane Stephens, elegantly attired in Simkhai, accepted the award, remarking on its unique significance given it was the night before a Grand Slam match. She shared her evolving understanding of her life's purpose, stating, "For a long time, I thought God put me on Earth to be a great tennis player, but now I understand that tennis was just my vehicle to be of service." She highlighted the profound honor of working alongside her family in this endeavor.
Impactful Outreach: The Sloane Stephens Foundation's Success
The Sloane Stephens Foundation made a substantial impact last year, reaching 7,500 children in Compton, California, and surrounding areas. Y. David Scharf, an Officer and Board Member of the USTA Foundation, lauded Stephens, calling her "an inspiration and so deserving of being our honoree." He emphasized that her dedication embodies the foundation's mission, showcasing that "Anything is possible" for the quarter of a million young people benefiting from their programs.
Gala Attendees and Fundraising Triumphs
The Opening Gala welcomed a host of notable figures, including Orlando Bloom, Lindsey Vonn, Vera Wang, Kate Walsh, and Katie Couric. The evening's highlight was a live auction, where Gayle King personally pledged $15,000 and Ryan Serhant of "Owning Manhattan" bid $50,000 for a Formula 1 experience in Las Vegas. These contributions collectively raised over $2.7 million, with an auction still ongoing for a tour of the Vogue offices and a meeting with Anna Wintour, including a pair of her Chanel sunglasses and a signed May 2026 Vogue issue.
Concluding the Evening: A Taste of Victory
Following the successful auction, attendees proceeded to the President's Suite in Arthur Ashe Stadium. There, they indulged in desserts and Honey Deuces, enjoying prime seating for the captivating Djokovic-Navone match that kept them on the edge of their seats until its dramatic conclusion.