LONDON — The prestigious cinch Championships at The Queen's Club has secured a major coup for its 2026 edition, with tournament organizers confirming that British number one Jack Draper and American world number six Jessica Pegula will headline the event. This announcement, made ahead of the 2025 tournament, signals a significant shift for the historic ATP 500 event as it prepares to welcome a top-tier WTA star for the first time in its new, expanded format.
The 2026 tournament will mark a new era for the West London event, which is undergoing a substantial redevelopment to transform it into a premier combined ATP and WTA 500 tournament. Pegula's commitment is a landmark moment for women's tennis in Britain, providing a stellar attraction for fans alongside the established men's draw, which has long been a key warm-up for Wimbledon. Draper's confirmation, meanwhile, solidifies the home favourite's commitment to the event where he claimed his maiden ATP title in a thrilling 2024 final against former world number one Carlos Alcaraz.
A New Chapter for a Historic Tournament
The Queen's Club, with its immaculate grass courts and rich history dating back to 1890, has been a bastion of men's tennis tradition. However, the landscape of British tennis is evolving. The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has been instrumental in pushing for a combined event to elevate the sport's profile in the country. The inclusion of a women's tour event at this level is seen as a crucial step forward for equality and fan engagement. The redevelopment plans for The Queen's Club include:
A new 4,000-seater stadium court, enhanced practice facilities, and improved amenities for players and spectators alike.
Tournament Director, Chris Pollard, expressed his elation at securing both players. "To have a commitment from a player of Jessica's calibre and profile for our first combined event is a tremendous statement of intent," he said. "She is a consistent force at the top of the game and a fantastic competitor. Pairing her with Jack, our British champion and a young man destined for the very top, gives fans a glimpse of the incredible tennis we will offer in 2026 and beyond."
Jack Draper: The Homecoming King
For Jack Draper, the 2026 tournament will represent a triumphant return to the scene of his greatest career achievement to date. His victory in 2024, where he navigated a tough draw and displayed formidable power and finesse on the grass, catapulted him into the top echelons of the sport and cemented his status as Britain's leading male player. The left-hander's explosive game, built around a massive serve and flat, penetrating groundstrokes, is perfectly suited to the fast lawns of Queen's.
In a statement released through his management, Draper conveyed his excitement about returning. "Winning Queen's was a dream come true, and the support from the British crowd that week was something I'll never forget. It's a special tournament with so much history, and to be able to come back in 2026, especially with the event growing to include women, is incredibly exciting. I can't wait to play in front of my home fans again."
Draper's development has been closely watched, and his 2024 Queen's victory was seen as a breakthrough moment of a player finally fulfilling his vast potential after battling injuries. His commitment to the 2026 event is a significant boost for the tournament's profile, ensuring a strong British presence and a genuine title contender that will galvanize local support.
Jessica Pegula: A Top-Tier American Arrives
The signing of Jessica Pegula is arguably the bigger headline from an international perspective. As a permanent fixture in the world's top 10 and a multiple Grand Slam quarter-finalist, Pegula brings a level of consistency and elite performance that will instantly elevate the women's draw. Known for her clean, powerful ball-striking, exceptional fitness, and astute tactical mind, Pegula is a formidable opponent on any surface, but her game is particularly well-suited to the quick transitions and precise returns required on grass.
Pegula has previously expressed her fondness for playing in the UK and has had solid performances at Wimbledon. Her decision to commit to Queen's two years in advance underscores the appeal of the new combined format. "I've always heard amazing things about The Queen's Club and the tradition there," Pegula remarked. "When the opportunity arose to be part of the first women's event in this new era, it was something I really wanted to support. It's a great chance to get high-level matches on grass before Wimbledon and to be part of tennis history."
Pegula's presence addresses a long-standing gap in the British tennis calendar, which has lacked a high-profile WTA event on grass in the lead-up to The Championships. For British fans and aspiring female players, the chance to see a player of Pegula's stature compete so close to home is a rare and valuable opportunity. Her participation is expected to attract a significant number of top WTA players looking for optimal Wimbledon preparation, ensuring a highly competitive field from its inception.
The Broader Impact on British Tennis
The confirmation of Draper and Pegula is more than just a player announcement; it is a strategic move with wide-ranging implications. The LTA has been focused on increasing the visibility and accessibility of professional tennis across the UK. A combined ATP/WTA 500 event in London provides:
- A showcase for the best of both tours on British soil.
- Increased inspiration for the next generation of male and female players.
- A significant economic boost for the local area and the sport.
Scott Lloyd, Chief Executive of the LTA, highlighted the strategic importance: "Securing Jack and Jessica for the 2026 cinch Championships is a fantastic start as we build towards this exciting new chapter. It demonstrates our commitment to growing the sport and providing more opportunities for fans to see the world's best players right here in Britain. This is a pivotal moment for tennis in this country."
Looking Ahead to 2026
While the 2025 tournament will proceed as a men's-only event, the anticipation for the 2026 edition is already building. The early commitment from two stars of the game sets a high bar and sends a clear message to the rest of the tour about the tournament's ambitions. Negotiations are undoubtedly ongoing with other top players from both tours to create a player field worthy of the occasion.
The 2026 cinch Championships promises to be a festival of tennis, blending the cherished traditions of The Queen's Club with a progressive, inclusive future. With the powerful left arm of Jack Draper flying the flag for the home nation and the relentless consistency of Jessica Pegula leading the charge for the WTA, the stage is set for a truly historic fortnight in West London.