The 2025 US Open is set to offer more than just world-class tennis this summer, as a groundbreaking reality dating series will be filmed live from the iconic Flushing Meadows grounds, blending elite sports with unscripted entertainment.
Tournament organizers, the United States Tennis Association (USTA), have announced a unique collaboration with Fresh Tape Media, a production company, to bring “Game, Set, Matchmaker” to life. This innovative venture aims to captivate audiences by introducing a fresh dimension to one of the biggest sporting events globally.
The series, aptly titled “Game, Set, Matchmaker,” will chronicle one woman’s journey to find love amidst the thrilling atmosphere of the Grand Slam event. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York, cameras will follow the lead as she navigates both the competitive spirit of the tournament and her personal quest for connection.
Ilana Sedaka, known as “The Champion,” will be the central figure, surrounded by a diverse cast of potential partners including social personalities, influencers, and dedicated tennis superfans. Viewers will witness her interactions and challenges as she seeks her match during the intense two weeks of the US Open.
The show is strategically designed for digital consumption, with episodes scheduled to air on the official US Open YouTube channel. The premiere episode will coincide with the opening day of the tournament, August 24, building anticipation throughout the event and culminating with its finale on the same day as the women’s final.
Sedaka herself expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting the surreal experience of combining such a personal endeavor with a major sporting event she has cherished since childhood. She highlighted the unique opportunity to explore genuine connections with seven distinct individuals within the electrifying environment of the US Open.
Officials from both the USTA and Fresh Tape Media are keen to explore this new intersection of tennis, drama, and pop culture. Jonathan Zipper, senior director of social media for the USTA, emphasized the timely launch of a “social-forward concept that meets the moment,” aiming to engage fans through entertainment beyond the courts.
Alana Glenn Moritz, creative director for Fresh Tape Media, further elaborated on the vision, describing the US Open not merely as a tournament but as a “cultural stage.” She explained that the series was crafted to capture the event’s raw energy, making it an unexpected, current, and deeply dramatic exploration of human connection.
This pioneering initiative represents a strategic move by the US Open to broaden its appeal, offering a compelling blend of competitive tennis and the relatable drama of a reality dating series, thereby solidifying its status as a premier global event in both sports and entertainment.
