Washington welcomes the tennis world

PUBLISHED: July 27, 2026 | www.baltimoresun.com

On Sunday evening, Washington, D.C., welcomed the world’s tennis elite as more than 400 guests gathered at The Ned for the official opening reception of the Mubadala Citi DC Open, with breathtaking panoramic views of the White House, the U.S. Treasury and the monuments of our nation’s capital serving as a spectacular backdrop.

The evening was a celebration of sport, friendship, philanthropy and international competition, reflecting the remarkable vision of Mark Ein, whose leadership has elevated the Mubadala Citi DC Open into the world’s only combined ATP 500 and WTA 500 tournament. His unwavering commitment has transformed the event into one of the most prestigious stops on the professional tennis calendar and one of Washington’s signature annual sporting events.

Among those attending were tennis stars Frances Tiafoe, Venus Williams, Tommy Paul and Lorenzo Musetti, along with civic, business and community leaders including Virginia Ali, the legendary founder and owner of Ben’s Chili Bowl; philanthropist Jan Adams, owner of Ideal Electrical Supply, who attended with her daughter Ronnette Meyers, president and CEO of JLAN Solutions; and Jason Levien, managing partner and owner of D.C. United.

Competition has begun, as many of the world’s finest players take the courts in Rock Creek Park. The men’s field includes Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, Lorenzo Musetti and other leading ATP stars. The women’s draw features Venus Williams, Naomi Osaka, Emma Navarro, Elina Svitolina, Sofia Kenin and numerous top international competitors. Jasmine Paolini, who had been expected to compete, unfortunately withdrew from the tournament prior to the opening of play.

Returning to defend their titles are Alex de Minaur, the reigning men’s singles champion, and Leylah Fernandez, the defending women’s singles champion.

The Mubadala Citi DC Open is far more than a tennis tournament. It is a week where sport brings together champions, business leaders, philanthropists, diplomats and fans from around the globe in the heart of the nation’s capital. Under Ein’s stewardship, Washington has become a destination where world-class competition and world-class hospitality meet, reminding us that great sporting events have the power to unite communities and inspire future generations.

Congratulations to Ein, his outstanding team, the sponsors, volunteers and everyone who continues to make the Mubadala Citi DC Open one of the crown jewels of international tennis and one of Washington’s most anticipated annual traditions.

Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun.

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