U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship 2026

Each spring, Houston transforms into a hub for professional tennis as the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship returns to the historic River Oaks Country Club. Scheduled for March 30 through April 5, 2026, this ATP 250 event is the only clay court tournament on the ATP Tour in North America, giving it a unique place on the global tennis calendar.

Tournament Overview

The U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship has a rich history dating back to 1910, when it was created to promote the growth of clay court tennis in the United States. Over the decades, the tournament has been held in nearly two dozen cities before eventually settling in Houston, where it has become a staple of the ATP calendar.

Early years featured dominant players like Hall of Famers Bryan “Bitsy” Grant and Wilmer Allison, while the event paused during World War II before continuing its growth. In the modern era, the tournament moved to River Oaks Country Club in 2008, blending its long-standing legacy with a new home and traditions like the winner’s celebratory pool jump. Today, it stands as the only ATP Tour clay court event in the United States, maintaining its historic significance while evolving into a premier international tennis event with strong ties to the Houston community.

With a 28-player singles draw and doubles competition, the event attracts a mix of rising stars, top-ranked Americans, and international clay court specialists, all competing for an ATP title in an intimate, fan-friendly setting.

Who’s Playing in 2026

The 2026 field is headlined by a strong American core along with international contenders:

• Ben Shelton (top seed and 2024 champion)
• Frances Tiafoe (2023 champion)
• Tommy Paul
• Learner Tien
• Brandon Nakashima

Returning champions and notable names include:

• Jenson Brooksby (defending champion)
• Reilly Opelka (2022 winner)
• Cristian Garin (2019 winner)

International standouts such as Tomás Martín Etcheverry and Alejandro Tabilo add depth to a field that includes multiple top-50 players and rising stars.

With several past champions and emerging talents competing, the tournament promises a highly competitive week on clay.

Schedule of Events

The 2026 tournament spans more than a week of action, beginning with qualifying rounds and building toward the finals:

• March 28 – 29: Qualifying rounds determine final spots in the main draw
• March 30 – April 1: Early rounds (singles and doubles begin)
• April 2: Second round and doubles quarterfinals
• April 3: Quarterfinals
• April 4: Semifinals
• April 5: Doubles final and singles championship match

Matches are played during both day and evening sessions, giving fans flexibility to attend throughout the week.

Know Before You Go

Planning ahead helps maximize the experience at River Oaks:

Getting There & Entry

• The venue is centrally located in Houston’s River Oaks neighborhood
• Guests should plan for limited parking and allow time for entry

Tickets & Seating

• General admission provides access to outer courts and grounds
• Stadium seating offers close-up views in an intimate setting

Food & Drink

• A variety of food and beverage options are available throughout the venue, including casual concessions and local favorites

Fan Experience

• The compact layout allows fans to get close to players during matches and practice sessions
• Early rounds often provide the best opportunity for autographs and up-close viewing

What to Bring

• Comfortable attire for outdoor conditions
• Sun protection, as most matches are played outdoors
• Clear bags may be required per event guidelines

A Unique Stop on the Tennis Calendar

As the only ATP clay court tournament in the United States, the Houston championship offers a rare opportunity for American fans to experience high-level clay tennis without traveling abroad.

Blending tradition, top-tier talent, and an intimate fan atmosphere, the 2026 U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship continues to stand out as one of Houston’s premier sporting events.