Venus Williams, Met Gala 2026 co-chair, joins elite tennis company

Venus Williams recently admitted that she wanted to play the Italian Open (and had received a wildcard) but had other obligations that prohibited her from playing. One of those obligations is a big one as Williams will be a celebrity co-chair at May 4’s Met Gala 2026.

Williams has previously attended the event and is well-aware of what is expected of her. She joins elite tennis company as the third legend of the sport to co-chair a Met Gala event.

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Roger Federer did it in 2023

Federer was the first male tennis player to be a Met Gala celebrity co-chair. The always debonair Federer was a natural in fulfulling his duties.

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Serena co-chaired in 2019

Venus’s younger sister, Serena Williams, was the first tennis player to be a Met Gala co-chair. She did it in 2019. The Williams sisters have always had ambitions in fashion design and the arts so this was an extension of their off-court interests.

Other notable tennis-related Met Gala moments

Serena attended to support Federer in 2023, and she shocked the world with her pregnancy announcement.

In 2024, Venus, Serena, and Maria Sharapova were all in attendance but could not find each other to take photos together.

About the Met Gala

Beyond being a who’s who of celebrity, art, culture, and donning the most outlandish costumes, the Met Gala raises money for the Metropolitan Museum of Art and specifically for The Costume Institute.

This year’s theme is “Costume Art” with a “Fashion Art” dress code. Joining Williams as celebrity co-chairs are Nicole Kidman, Anna Wintour, and Beyonce.