The U.S. Open Fan Week is returning to Queens on Tuesday, Aug. 23, giving avid tennis lovers and casual sports fans alike the opportunity to experience the action for free.
From Tuesday, Aug. 23, through Sunday, Aug. 28, the grounds are free and open to the public, with a range of events and activities for fans. The weeklong event will be held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the U.S. Open. Fan week returns after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The first event that will take place is the U.S. Open Qualifying Tournament. The qualifying rounds will feature 128 men and 128 women competing for the final 16 spots in both main draws. The matches will take place from Tuesday, Aug. 23, to Friday, Aug. 26.
Last year, British player Emma Raducanu started in the Women’s Singles during the Qualifying Tournament and went on to win the entire tournament.
Fans will also have the opportunity to see former U.S. Open Champions Andy Roddick, Kim Clijsters, James Blake and Lindsay Davenport battle it out in an exhibition match on Tuesday, Aug. 23, at 7 p.m.
The tournament will host Tennis Plays for Peace on Wednesday, Aug. 24, which is Ukraine Independence Day. The event will feature a variety of singles and mixed doubles matches.
Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcarez, Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek are among some of the notable players who will be highlighting the event.
This is one of the few ticketed events to take place over the course of the week as all ticket proceeds will be donated to the Ukraine crisis relief fund. Tickets can be purchased on Ticketmaster and range between $25 and $50.
Competitors will take part in the Featured Practices in the Grandstand throughout the week. There will also be entertainment and music for fans in attendance. The schedule is available and updated daily at usopen.org.
Every day throughout the week, fans will have the opportunity to access Arthur Ashe Stadium to view player practices in the U.S. Open’s main stadium and get a look into the world’s largest tennis stadium.
For the first time ever, fans get to experience the U.S. Open Media Day on Friday, Aug. 26. A portion of the event will be focused entirely on the fans, with any in attendance at Arthur Ashe Stadium being able to hear directly from the players as they answer questions.
Arthur Ashe Kids Day will take place on Saturday, Aug. 27, at 9:30 a.m. and celebrates the life and legacy of tennis player Arthur Ashe. The first 1,000 children onsite get a free Wilson tennis racquet. Fans will get the chance to play tennis and there will also be live performances.
To experience all that Fan Week has to offer, register for a Fan Pass on the U.S. Open website.
