Game Set Ride: IHG Brings Luxury Hospitality Beyond the US Open

The hotel group introduces a complimentary premium motorcoach experience, combining comfort, food, and exclusive rewards to make the journey home part of the tennis tournament experience

New York, 12 October 2026 – For tennis fans, the excitement of a major tournament does not always end with the final point. IHG Hotels & Resorts is building on that idea at the 2026 US Open by introducing the IHG Racquet Cruiser, a premium motorcoach designed to extend the hospitality experience beyond the stadium. The initiative reflects a growing trend in the hospitality industry, where brands are creating memorable experiences around major sporting events rather than focusing exclusively on accommodation.

The IHG Racquet Cruiser offers eligible fans a complimentary ride from Arthur Ashe Stadium to selected IHG hotels in Manhattan following certain US Open sessions. Designed to make the journey more comfortable and enjoyable, the motorcoach will feature food, entertainment, and thoughtful amenities that allow guests to relax after a day of competition.

Passengers can enjoy slices from Prince St. Pizza, express facial treatments, match replays, device charging facilities, Wi-Fi, and surprise gifts. The experience is intended to transform an ordinary trip across the city into another opportunity to enjoy the tournament atmosphere.

The initiative builds on IHG's established association with the US Open. The company returns for its eighth year as the official hotel and hotel loyalty program of the tennis championships. By bringing its hospitality services into the wider event experience, the group aims to strengthen its connection with sports fans and demonstrate how customer experiences can extend beyond traditional hotel stays.

Connor Smith, senior vice president of global brands and global creative director at IHG, explained that hospitality should continue throughout a guest's journey. The Racquet Cruiser reflects this approach by bringing comfort and personalized touches into an environment where fans might otherwise simply arrange their own transportation.

Alongside the new motorcoach, IHG is bringing back the Watermelon Slice cocktail at its IHG Racquet Bar. The drink combines Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut, watermelon juice, elderflower liqueur, and lime, finished with a watermelon wedge. It will be served in a collectible cup inspired by tennis, giving visitors a keepsake from the tournament.

The company's offerings also extend to members of IHG One Rewards. Throughout the competition, eligible members can access special merchandise and limited-time redemption packages. The loyalty program also provides opportunities to bid for exclusive experiences connected with IHG's sports partnerships.

The 2026 US Open is scheduled to run from August 23 through September 13 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, New York. The event attracts tennis enthusiasts from around the world, making it an important opportunity for hospitality brands to engage with travelers and sports audiences.

IHG's latest initiative reflects a broader shift toward experiential hospitality, where personalized services and exclusive activities help distinguish brands in a competitive market. Rather than treating transportation, dining, and entertainment as separate services, companies are increasingly bringing them together to create a more connected customer journey.

For IHG, the Racquet Cruiser demonstrates how a sporting partnership can become an opportunity to build stronger customer relationships. By adding comfort and convenience to the journey home, the company is seeking to make the overall tournament experience more memorable for fans.

• By Editorial Panel
• 14 Oct 2026