As the 2026 Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship approaches, anticipation grows around the compelling lineup of doubles teams set to compete from March 30 to April 5 at the historic River Oaks Country Club in Houston, Texas. This year’s draw is enriched by the presence of four previous champions, showcasing a mix of experienced players and promising talent in the 16-team doubles format.
Among the past champions are John-Patrick Smith, Fernando Romboli, Santiago Gonzalez, and John Peers. Each of these players will pair up with new partners as they aim for another title on American clay. Tournament Director Bronwyn Greer expressed excitement over this year’s field, highlighting the blend of success not just on U.S. clay but on various international circuits. A notable change this year is the championship match shifting to Sunday afternoon, promising a thrilling finale to the week of tennis.
Smith, who made headlines with his victory alongside Romboli in 2025, continues his successful run with Dutch player Sander Arends in this edition. Arends, a seasoned ATP competitor, is set to make his debut at this tournament. Meanwhile, Romboli will join forces with Gonzalez, who boasts impressive credentials, including a championship win in 2019 and a runner-up finish at the French Open in 2017.
Peers, who celebrated his first ATP title at River Oaks in 2013, returns with Jean-Julien Rojer. Rojer, a veteran of the doubles circuit, brings with him an impressive record of over 500 career wins and 37 titles. Additionally, Rajeev Ram, a former world No. 1 and Olympic medalist, partners with the young talent Benjamin Kittay, who impressed last month by reaching the finals in his ATP debut at Delray Beach.
Notably, the singles top seed, Ben Shelton, is also stepping into the doubles arena, partnering with Andres Andrade. This duo, both alumni of the University of Florida, previously captured the NCAA team title in 2021. In a reunion of sorts, Learner Tien will join Alex Michelsen, marking their collaboration after a competitive singles bout last year.
Additional American entries include Rinky Hijikata, who recently advanced to the Round of 16 at Indian Wells, combining with Ryan Seggerman. The Australian Open champion Hijikata, along with fellow Aussie and Australian Open finalist Marc Polmans—making his U.S. clay debut—reflects the international flavor of the competition.
The impressive roster of doubles teams is rounded out by the likes of Argentinian players Tomas Martin Etcheverry and Thiago Agustin Tirante, as well as a powerful Kazakh team consisting of Andrey Golubev and Aleksandr Nedovyesov. The tournament also showcases American hopefuls Nathaniel Lammons and Jackson Withrow, both eager to secure their 10th ATP title together.
The doubles competition in 2026 promises to deliver exciting matches filled with high-stakes play as both seasoned champions and rising stars take to the clay courts of Houston. Fans can anticipate an exhilarating week leading up to the final match on Sunday, April 5, at noon, where a new champion will emerge from this formidable field.
