For tennis lovers around the world, August means only one thing: the US Open. Tennis’ final and last Grand Slam of the year and the highest-attended sporting event in the world.
But before fan favorites Venus Williams, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal—who are all defying father time this season with some incredible match play—descend on Arthur Ashe Stadium to compete for the US Open Trophy, the United States Tennis Association (USTA), which owns and operates the US Open, is hosting a weeklong extravaganza for the best fans in the world: you!
This year, the USTA is debuting its “US Open Experience,” a free, two-day tennis festival featuring current and former players, autograph signings, tennis games, entertainment, and much more! And what’s cool: Instead of schlepping to Queens to take part in this festival, USTA is bringing the experience, energy, and excitement to Manhattan. It will be held on Thursday, August 24 and Friday, August 25 from 10am to 8pm each day at NYC’s historic Seaport District (which is being transformed into a mini USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center) in Lower Manhattan as part of the Seaport Summer line up.
On Thursday, future tennis stars can participate in Net Generation’s immersive on-court clinic and target hitting game, which is premiering for the first time ever in addition to other fun-filled activities and attractions that will be featured at the Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day.
The next day fans can size up their favorite player’s competition when the US Open Draw is unveiled on the main stage with broadcasters, defending women’s champion Angelique Kerber, and other noteworthy guests.
For die-hard fans who believe their hawk-eyes can tell whether the ball is in or out, you can hop in a replica of the US Open umpire chair for a Instagram-worthy photo-op. Not to be left out, those who imagine beating Roger Federer in their dreams and hoisting up the trophy, can snap a pic with a US Open Trophy in real life, and then pose for more pics next to the Mercedes-Benz car display for the ultimate tweetable moment. Also, Mount Sinai Hospital will be on hand to offer some health and activity tips. What’s more: each night culminates with live musical performances and noted DJs.
With all this excitement, don’t forget to eat. Thankfully, US Open’s food vendor Korilla and beverage purveyor Lavazza will provide some food and coffee tastings so you can refuel, and there’ll be beverage service at the Seaport District’s Garden Bar.
The US Open begins on August 28 and ends on September 10 and is held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
To learn more about the US Open Fan Week, visit usopen.org and the US Open Experience, check out usopen.org. For more information about the US Open schedule and tickets, visit usopen.org.
