Chicago Tennis Leagues & Tournaments: The 2026 Competitive Guide
Last updated: December 2025
Chicago tennis isn't just about hitting balls at Waveland; it's about the community. Whether you are a 4.5 looking to qualify for Sectionals or a 3.0 looking for a fun Tuesday night activity, Chicago has one of the most organized and active tennis scenes in the US. From the flexibility of Gladiator Tennis to the team spirit of CATA, here is how to get in the game in 2026.
1. Gladiator Tennis (The Flexible Choice)
If you have a busy schedule, Gladiator Tennis is the king of Chicago leagues. It operates on a "flex" schedule. You are assigned an opponent, and you have one week to schedule the match at a mutually convenient time and location.
- Format: Singles and Doubles. 7-week seasons run year-round (Indoor in winter, Outdoor in summer).
- Locations: Anywhere. You can play at your local park or club.
- Vibe: Competitive but convenient.
2. CATA / USTA Leagues (The Team Choice)
The Chicago Area Tennis Association (CATA) runs the official USTA leagues. This is team-based tennis. You join a team (usually based out of a club like Midtown or a park district), and you play weekly scheduled matches against other clubs.
3. Comparison: Which League Fits You?
| Feature | Gladiator Tennis | USTA / CATA |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule | Flexible (You pick time) | Fixed (e.g., Tues 6 PM) |
| Format | Individual / Partner | Team (6-10 players) |
| Level | NTRP 2.5 - 5.0 | NTRP 2.5 - 5.0 |
| Advancement | Playoffs | Sectionals/Nationals |
4. Chi-Town Tennis (Social & LGBTQ+)
Chicago has a vibrant social tennis scene. Groups like the Athletic Alliance of Chicago (AAC) run tennis ladders and social mixers, fostering a highly inclusive environment, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. They often host the "Second City Tennis Classic," a major summer tournament.
Getting Rated (NTRP)
To join Gladiator or USTA, you need a rating (NTRP). If you don't have one, you will need to self-rate.
- 3.0: Can rally at moderate pace, consistent serve.
- 3.5: Developing net game, directional control.
- 4.0+: Power, spin, and strategic court coverage.
Don't Join a League Cold
League play is pressure play. If you haven't played a competitive set in years, your first match can be a shock. (Especially if you are playing indoors—check our Indoor Tennis Guide for surface speed info).
Book a League Prep Lesson with us first. We will assess your level so you self-rate correctly (sandbagging is frowned upon!) and help you refine your match strategy.