World Team Tennis Unveils Team Markets for Reimagined, Fan-First 2026 Season
World Team Tennis (WTT) has announced the establishment of new city-based clubs in Toronto, New York City, and the Miami metropolitan area, in preparation for its 47th season set to begin in December 2026. The league, co-founded by Billie Jean King in 1974, aims to enhance fan experience with bold changes.
Stephen Amritraj, Chief Executive Officer of WTT, expressed excitement about the league's expansion, stating, "Together, these markets are home to some of the world's largest tennis communities, incredible sports and entertainment venues, and elite player talent. We've been intentional about listening to tennis fans and revamped WTT's entire fan experience from the ground up to create a truly unique team product in tennis."
The upcoming season will consist of six events, with each team scheduled for two home matches and two away matches. The league's Opening Night will occur at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, followed by events at Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto, Ontario, and Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. These venues will provide a unique fan experience combining elite tennis with premium hospitality, live entertainment, and interactive activities.
Gavin Ziv, Chief Executive Officer of Tennis Canada, noted the significance of WTT's return to Toronto, emphasizing the growing interest in tennis in Canada. "Over one million new tennis players hit the courts in Canada last year," he stated, "and we look forward to providing tennis fans with a new event to experience." Canadian players are also expected to participate, allowing local fans to support a home team.
The league will introduce a redesigned match format featuring four singles sets and a mixed doubles Supertiebreaker, promoting gender equity and competition. This new format reflects viewer consumption data indicating that fans often watch only parts of traditional matches. WTT's single-set, no-ad format promises to deliver a streamlined, fast-paced experience while maintaining its tradition of emphasizing the importance of each point in the game.
WTT, which champions mixed-gender team competition and accessibility in the sport, aims to redefine the tennis experience for a new generation. The league combines professional play with elements of entertainment and community pride, appealing to fans and players alike.