Serena Williams, Taylor Fritz, and other top tennis players gathered recently for a high-profile US Open party in New York City, marking the official kickoff for the 2025 tournament. Hosted in collaboration with David Grutman and DraftKings, the event drew some of the sport’s biggest names, including Aryna Sabalenka, Ben Shelton, and Morgan Riddle, building excitement ahead of the competition at Flushing Meadows.
Players’ Stylish Appearances Highlight the Evening
At the welcome party, Serena Williams, a six-time US Open champion and former World No. 1, chose a white halter top paired with a flowing skirt and black heels, bringing elegance to the occasion. Aryna Sabalenka, currently ranked World No. 1, alongside Morgan Riddle, opted for striking all-black outfits, while Taylor Fritz appeared in a casual black t-shirt with light trousers. Ben Shelton wore a light beige ensemble, blending style with relaxed sophistication.
Other Notable Tennis Stars and Figures in Attendance
Besides the aforementioned players, the party also featured appearances from Argentine tennis legend Juan Martín del Potro, Nick Kyrgios, Holger Rune, Eugenie Bouchard, Francisco Cerundolo, and entrepreneur Rich Kleiman. David Grutman, the Miami-based restaurateur and nightclub owner, captured moments from the event on Instagram, sharing the vibrant atmosphere with his followers.
Mixed Doubles Championship Adds Competitive Spirit Before Main Event
Just prior to the tournament, a revamped mixed doubles championship took place over two days, offering a $1 million prize and featuring a selection of elite players. The Italian team of Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori successfully defended their title by defeating Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud in the final, adding a thrilling prelude to the main US Open games.
Serena Williams Opens Up About Her Weight Loss Journey
In an exclusive interview with People on August 21, 2025, Serena Williams discussed her recent weight loss experience through the use of GLP-1 medications, which are designed to assist with weight management and reduce health risks such as kidney and heart disease. The treatments are provided by the telehealth company Ro, where Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, serves as an investor and board member.
“I feel great. I feel really good and healthy. I feel light physically and light mentally. I did a lot of research on it. I was like, ‘is this a shortcut? What are the benefits? What are not the benefits?’ I really wanted to dive into it before I just did it. I lost over 31 pounds using my GLP-1 and I was really excited about that weight loss. I feel like I have a lot of energy and it’s great. I just feel pretty good about it” —Serena Williams
Looking Ahead: Building Momentum for the US Open Tournament
The atmosphere surrounding the 2025 US Open is charged with anticipation, fueled by the star presence at the opening party and the intense competition of the mixed doubles championship. With players like Taylor Fritz and Serena Williams in attendance, the tournament promises thrilling matches throughout its duration from August 24 to September 7 at Flushing Meadows. Fans and participants alike are poised for an unforgettable event in one of tennis’s most iconic settings.