Advertisement
US Open grand slam to operate...

Sport

US Open grand slam to operate at 100% capacity later this year


Share this article


This year's US Open tennis championships is to become the first Grand Slam to operate at full capacity since the 2020 Australian Open. 

The two-week tournament gets underway in Flushing Meadows, New York on August 30.

Organisers say the US Open will still adhere to CDC COVID-19 related guidelines still in operation.

Last year's US Open went ahead in its usual slot, but at an eerily empty Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre. Following last year's cancellation of Wimbledon and the delayed French Open, it was the first slam to play out in a post-COVID environment.

Tennis attendances at the slams are ramping up this summer. The French Open finals were played out with the Philippe Chatrier Court one-third full last week.

Meanwhile, Wimbledon organisers have confirmed that Centre Court will be at maximum capacity for both the men's and women's singles finals at SW19 next month.

New York State lifted most of its coronavirus restrictions on Wednesday (June 16), with more than 70 per cent of adults vaccinated.

“We are extremely excited to be able to welcome our incredible fans back to the US Open this year,” said Mike Dowse, USTA CEO.

“While we were proud that we were able to hold the event in 2020, we missed having our fans on-site, because we know that they are a large part of what makes the US Open experience unlike any other.

"Indeed, the challenges presented by the pandemic were tough on us all, but our sport came together like never before and tackled each challenge head on.

"Interest in tennis has accelerated, with four million new and returning players taking to the court last year. Our sport surged in the toughest of times, and this year’s US Open promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the game, those who play it, and those who revel in it.”

Rafael Nadal pulls out of Wimbledon and Tokyo Olympics


Share this article


Read more about

Flushing Meadows French Open New York Roland Garros Tennis US Open Wimbledon

You might like