Get ready to witness an electrifying showdown on the courts as the U.S. Open Tennis Tournament swings into action at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The excitement kicks off on August 28 and keeps the thrill alive until September 10, turning Queens into a tennis hub like no other.
Last year, the U.S. Open left its mark with a staggering attendance record of over 776,000 devoted tennis fans. With the introduction of the U.S. Open Fan Week, the numbers soared even higher, culminating in a whopping 888,000 attendees over three adrenaline-packed weeks. But this isn’t just about the numbers – it’s about the buzz, the camaraderie, and the celebration of sportsmanship.
The U.S. Open brings a lot more to Queens than exhilarating matches. It pumps around $750 million directly into the veins of New York City’s economy, supporting over 7,000 jobs that give life to the city. Notably, a significant portion of these jobs find their homes right in the heart of Queens, adding a local touch to this global spectacle.
Sure, some grumble about the traffic snarls and the occasional restricted park access. But when you weigh that against the tremendous benefits, it’s a no-brainer. Queens Tourism Council and Queens Together are putting their heads together to serve up a tempting list of restaurants along the 7 train route. It’s a feast for the senses, promoting local eateries and urging visitors to savor Queens’ culinary tapestry.
Rob MacKay, the Director of the Queens Tourism Council, acknowledges the occasional discontent but firmly believes that the U.S. Open’s international prominence justifies the hustle and bustle. There’s more to this event than meets the eye – the weeklong fan fest, the heart-pounding Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day – all adding layers of excitement to Queens’ charm.
And there’s another heartwarming tale unfolding on August 29. The City Parks Foundation (CPF) is set to honor the trailblazing Billie Jean King during its 25th Annual Tennis Benefit. This event, marking King’s 25-year commitment to chairing and initiating the event, fuels CityParks Tennis, a program that’s making tennis accessible to the city’s youth. It’s also a nod to King’s iconic battle for equal pay in tennis, a crusade that marks its 50th anniversary this year.
As Queens opens its arms to the U.S. Open, it isn’t just about tennis. It’s about community, connection, and celebration. So, as the Queens’ air fills with the crack of tennis balls and the cheers of the crowd, remember – it’s not just a game; it’s an experience that Queens proudly shares with the world.
