NEW YORK - iSportsWire -- The Liberty Open returns July 10–12, 2026 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, bringing hundreds of LGBTQ+ athletes together for a weekend of competition, connection, and community. The official theme of the tournament, Love All, underscores the spirit of fairness, respect, and openness — both on and off the court. Matches across all levels and divisions will showcase athletic skill, camaraderie, and sportsmanship, giving players the opportunity to compete openly, support one another, and be seen for who they are.

The Liberty Open Tournament Banquet will be a highlight of the 2026 tournament, headlined by author Edward Schmit, celebrating the spirit of Love All. On Saturday, July 11, attendees will enjoy a special conversation between Schmit and lifestyle creator and LGBTQ+ advocate Will Taylor, discussing Schmit's debut novel The Open Era, which follows a rising tennis star navigating the pressures of being the first openly gay man competing at a Grand Slam. The story mirrors the same values that Love All embodies: openness, authenticity, and connection. Praised by New York Times bestselling authors as "what sports romance dreams are made of", the conversation will explore queer representation in sports, mental health in high-performance environments, and the realities of competing while staying true to yourself.

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The evening will also include dinner, dancing, and a live performance from a special LGBTQ+ guest. Guests can also purchase raffle tickets for special prizes, with proceeds supporting The Trevor Project. The Tournament Banquet is open to tournament participants and members of the general public. A limited number of tickets are available. For more information or to reserve tickets, visit https://www.metrotennisgroup.com/event-6704819.

Other special events include the Players' Welcome Draw Party on Thursday evening, July 9, providing a chance for athletes to meet, mingle, and settle into the energy of the tournament.

"At the Liberty Open, Love All isn't just a score — it's the heart of how we play, compete, and connect," said Kevin Ko, Liberty Open Tournament Director. "Our partnership with the USTA strengthens our ability to create spaces where every player can show up fully, compete openly, and feel valued. We look forward to expanding this mission through future events and initiatives."

"Tennis is for everyone," added Marisa Grimes, USTA Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer. "Working with MTG to bring Love All to life on and off the court allows LGBTQ+ athletes to compete, connect, and thrive, creating a stronger, more inclusive sport for all."

Founded in 1993 by the Metropolitan Tennis Group (MTG) and sanctioned by the Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance (GLTA), the Liberty Open has grown into a flagship tournament in LGBTQ+ tennis. The 2026 edition welcomes players of all levels and divisions, offering a competitive environment rooted in respect, inclusion, and shared love for the game.

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For nearly 40 years, MTG has brought people together through tennis — creating a community shaped by generations of players who found not just competition, but connection. From a small Village Voice ad to world-class courts, the mission has remained constant: to create space, build belonging, and ensure everyone has a place on the court, guided by the theme of Love All.

Event Details

Players' Welcome Draw Party
Thursday, July 9, 2026 | 6–9pm
Gym Sportsbar — 167 8th Ave, New York, NY

Tournament
Friday–Sunday, July 10–12, 2026
USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

Tournament Banquet – Love All: The Future Is Open
Saturday, July 11, 2026 | 7pm
Terrace on the Park — 52-11 111th St, Queens, NY

Featuring dinner, a special conversation with Edward Schmit and Will Taylor on The Open Era, dancing, a live performance from a special LGBTQ+ guest, and raffle tickets for special prizes supporting The Trevor Project.

Members of the public are welcome to attend. A limited number of tickets are available.

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About Metropolitan Tennis Group (MTG)

The Metropolitan Tennis Group is a New York City–based nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for LGBTQ+ tennis players and allies through recreational and competitive play, social events, and community service.

About USTA

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) is the national governing body for tennis in the U.S., dedicated to growing the sport and making it accessible to everyone. Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the USTA works to create welcoming environments where players of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities can thrive on and off the court.