The US Open is one of the 4 Grand Slam tennis tournaments that take place every year. The importance of the event means that it attracts top players, with significant amounts of prize money on offer.
That prize money is regarded by most tennis players as being considerably less important than the prestige that can be earned by winning this famous tournament. A place in the history of the sport is guaranteed, joining the likes of Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Pete Sampras and Steffi Graf.
For those wishing to see the players in action, the good news is that it’s possible to get tickets for the event, which takes place at Flushing Meadows, in New York City.
Book Early
Although tickets can certainly be expensive, they are made available to the general public in the months prior to the tournament. A variety of ticket options are available and you’ll generally pay more to witness the action on the show courts. Fortunately, the quality of the entry list means that you’ll also get to see some fantastic options on the other courts.
Unlike some other tournaments, the US Open also sees some matches being hosted after dark. Locals suggest that these night matches often have a particularly vibrant atmosphere.
If you are looking to see competitive matches, then you may wish to aim for dates towards the latter end of the tournament. The best players tend to make serene progress through the earlier rounds, meaning that matches can sometimes be a little shorter in length during the first week of action.
Getting There
If you’ve been examining your options for car hire in USA with Avis, then you’ll be pleased to hear that a considerable amount of parking is provided in the area surrounding Flushing Meadows. You do need to take into account the parking charges, however, since these are usually separate from the cost of entering the venue.
You may be tempted to bring a large bag of belongings on the day, but it’s worth noting that security is particularly tight and that all bags are searched. This means that your entry to Flushing Meadows will be delayed. You may wish to avoid taking a bag, if possible, in order to ensure that you can avoid the queues.
There’s also a distinct lack of shade available in the grandstands, so it makes sense to bring your own hat and sunglasses. Although it’s possible to buy such accessories within the grounds, prices do tend to be inflated.
You’ll also discover that it can be expensive to buy food and drink within the venue, but a number of stalls offer cheaper options outside the main gates. It’s possible for you to exit Flushing Meadows and to get your hand stamped, ensuring that you will have no problems with re-entry. That means that you can step outside at lunchtime and save yourself a bit of money.
As an alternative, you might prefer to pack your own sandwiches. The regulations at the venue do permit you to bring a reasonable amount of food and drink.
If you’d like to take the opportunity to get even closer to the stars of the tennis world, then look out for the autograph signing sessions, which take place on most days of the tournament.
Even if you can’t afford the prices that are associated with the very best seats, you shouldn’t despair. Action continues into the night on many of the outside courts. Even on the main courts, there’s a chance for you to get closer to the action than you may imagine.
Many wealthy visitors to the US Open tend to leave early and ushers will often hand out passes, as they attempt to fill seats. This means that it may be possible for you to get an upgrade, although this doesn’t happen every day.
In order to reach the US Open from the Grand Central Parkway, you should leave at the Tennis Center exit. You’ll then find that the venue is located on your right.
The US Open has a profile that is only matched by the Australian Open, the French Open and the Wimbledon Championships. Your visit to the US Open will be a memorable experience, allowing you to witness Grand Slam tennis live. It’s an opportunity that’s not to be missed.
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