The US Open is the fourth and final Grand Slam tournament of the year, taking place every September over two weeks at Flushing Meadows in Queens, New York City. Athletes compete in five primary championships: men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. The event also features wheelchair tennis and events for juniors, seniors, and players with disabilities.
This year’s U.S. Open will feature a number of changes, including an expanded main draw and a change to the format for the mixed-doubles competition, which has a $1 million prize — a fivefold increase over last year’s prize money. Moreover, the main draws start on Sunday this year instead of Monday, bringing it into line with the French and Australian opens. The tournament’s video review technology has been expanded to include all 17 competition courts.
While tickets for matches inside Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium can be hard to come by, there are many ways to experience the US Open at a lower price. One easy option is to purchase a grounds pass and sit in the stands for free. A good place to plop down is the plaza just south of Arthur Ashe, where screens are set up to broadcast all day long.
For those looking to stay at a hotel with US Open-themed programming, Kimpton Theta New York – Times Square is offering a Grand Slam Getaway that includes a daily Honey Deuce cocktail served in official US Open cups and table tennis competitions. Alternatively, the hotel’s rooftop bar, Il Bar, is streaming matches throughout the tournament and serving its signature Honey Deuce in a variety of branded Grey Goose glasses.