U.S. Open Launches Unique Dating Series: Game, Set, Matchmaker

The U.S. Open is stepping beyond the boundaries of tennis this year, transforming its prestigious tournament into a vibrant backdrop for a new dating series. The show, titled Game, Set, Matchmaker, is set to debut on August 24, coinciding with the tournament's opening day.

In July 2025, the USTA and Fresh Tape Media unveiled plans for this eight-part YouTube series. It will spotlight Ilana Sedaka, a former champion figure skater turned Pilates instructor, as she navigates the dating scene among a diverse group of potential partners, including influencers and tennis enthusiasts.

Jonathan Zipper, senior director of social media at the USTA, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We’re excited to break new ground with Game, Set, Matchmaker at the US Open and across our channels this year. It’s the perfect time for us to launch a fun, social-forward concept that meets the moment, engaging fans at the intersection of tennis, pop culture and entertainment.”

Alana Glenn Moritz, creative director for Fresh Tape Media, emphasized the cultural significance of the U.S. Open. “It’s more than a tournament; it’s a cultural stage,” she remarked. “We built this series to capture that energy in its purest form. It’s unexpected, it’s current, and taps into the drama and connection that makes this event unlike anything else.”

Game, Set, Matchmaker will unfold entirely at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, New York. Throughout the series, Sedaka will engage in various activities and dates with seven different matches before ultimately narrowing her choices down to two finalists.

As a four-time U.S. figure skating gold medalist and Pilates instructor at Solidcore, Sedaka brings a unique background to the show. Originally from Long Island but now residing in Miami, she has expressed her excitement about participating in such an iconic event. “The tournament has always been one of the most iconic sporting events in the country,” she stated. “It was something I looked forward to every summer living so close to it.”

Reflecting on her upcoming experience, Sedaka shared, “To now be stepping into this experience at such a legendary venue feels surreal and incredibly special. I’m coming in open to connection, ready to compete, and excited to be part of something bigger. My hope is to bring a little joy, a little chaos, and a whole lot of realness to the court.”

Mark your calendars: Game, Set, Matchmaker will premiere on the U.S. Open’s YouTube channel on Sunday, August 2.