Breaking: Sloane Stephens Gets US Open Main Draw Place

Image Source: BBC

Sloane Stephens is set to return to the US Open after receiving direct entry into the women’s singles main draw, adding another major name to an event already attracting intense attention.

The American, who won the 2017 US Open title, will be part of the tournament that begins on Sunday, 30 August. Her inclusion was confirmed alongside a wildcard announcement for Venus Williams, creating the possibility of another high-profile appearance by one of tennis’s most celebrated families.

Sloane Stephens Secures US Open Main Draw Place

Stephens remains one of the most recognisable players in American tennis. Her breakthrough at Flushing Meadows came in 2017, when she defeated fellow American Madison Keys in the final to claim her first Grand Slam singles title.

That victory followed a remarkable run through the tournament. Stephens returned from a serious foot injury earlier that year and produced some of the best tennis of her career in New York, defeating several leading opponents on her way to the championship.

Her direct entry into the 2026 US Open gives her another opportunity to compete on one of the sport’s biggest stages. While the latest announcement did not include detailed information about her draw or preparation, her presence will be closely followed by American fans and tennis supporters worldwide.

A Powerful Williams Sisters Story Takes Shape

Venus Williams, 46, has been awarded a singles wildcard for the tournament. She first played at the US Open 29 years ago and reached the final on her singles debut in 1997.

The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion won the title at Flushing Meadows in 2000 and 2001. She also defeated her sister Serena Williams in the 2001 final, the first of nine major singles finals contested between the siblings.

Venus has not won a singles match in 2026 and is currently winless in 13 singles appearances. She has lost all 10 of her singles matches this season, while her most recent singles victory came in Washington in July 2025.

Despite that difficult run, the veteran remains a major attraction. Stands were packed during the sisters’ recent return to doubles action at the Cincinnati Open, where they lost a thrilling three-set contest.

Could Serena Williams Join Venus in New York?

Serena Williams could still join Venus in the US Open singles field. One women’s singles wildcard remains available, although there has been no confirmation that the 23-time Grand Slam champion will receive it.

Serena returned to competitive tennis in June after previously saying she was “evolving away” from the sport. She played singles at Wimbledon after receiving a wildcard, but her campaign ended in the first round against Maya Joint when she suffered a knee injury.

The sisters had been due to play doubles together at Wimbledon, but withdrew following Serena’s injury. They reunited at the Cincinnati Open, where their competitive return generated considerable interest despite the defeat.

BBC Sport tennis correspondent Russell Fuller reported that a doubles appearance by Venus and Serena at the US Open appears likely. However, Serena may need to decide whether she feels ready for another singles challenge after limited preparation and only one singles match since her comeback.

US Open Doubles Plans Add More Excitement

Wildcards for the women’s doubles event had not yet been announced in the source report. The Williams sisters have enjoyed strong public support whenever they have appeared together, and another doubles match in New York would be one of the tournament’s most anticipated attractions.

Venus has performed better in doubles in recent years. She reached the US Open quarter-finals in 2025 alongside Leylah Fernandez, showing that her experience and net play can still make her a dangerous partner in the women’s doubles competition.

The tournament will also feature a revamped mixed doubles event beginning on 24 August. Three places remained available at the time of the announcement, creating another possible route for star players to compete in New York.

Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz were both returning to training after knee and wrist injuries respectively, although neither had committed to playing in New York. Their participation in mixed doubles could provide a useful way to regain competitive rhythm before the singles tournament begins.

Why Sloane Stephens’ Return Matters

For Stephens, the US Open represents a chance to reconnect with the tournament that defined her career. Her 2017 triumph remains one of the most memorable recent American Grand Slam victories, and she continues to carry strong support whenever she competes on home soil.

Her entry also strengthens an American women’s field featuring a blend of established champions, returning stars and emerging talent. With Venus confirmed and Serena still a possibility, the 2026 US Open could deliver an unusually emotional and nostalgic chapter in New York tennis.

FAQs About Sloane Stephens and the US Open

Is Sloane Stephens playing at the 2026 US Open?

Yes. Sloane Stephens has received direct entry into the women’s singles main draw at the 2026 US Open.

When does the 2026 US Open begin?

The US Open singles main draw begins on Sunday, 30 August 2026. The mixed doubles event starts earlier, on 24 August.

Has Sloane Stephens won the US Open?

Yes. Stephens won her first Grand Slam singles title at the 2017 US Open, defeating Madison Keys in the final.

Will Serena Williams play at the 2026 US Open?

Serena Williams could still receive the remaining women’s singles wildcard, but her participation had not been confirmed in the source report.

Could Venus and Serena Williams play doubles together?

It appears possible. Wildcards for the women’s doubles event had not yet been announced, and the sisters recently reunited in doubles at the Cincinnati Open.