One of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world, the US Open is held annually in New York City. A Grand Slam event, this iconic tournament is one that always promises a spectacle of sportsmanship as well as iconic cultural events that build on the history of the sport year after year.
Whether you’re a die-hard tennis fan or just love to watch an occasional match, here are 10 fun facts about the US Open you might not know.
1. Night matches
The US Open is the only Grand Slam tournament that regularly scheduled matches to take place at night. Beginning in 1975, this was a decision made to attract more post-work viewers. Plus, the lights at night serve to create an electric atmosphere and add to the excitement for players and viewers alike.
2. Largest tennis venue
The Arthur Ashe Stadium, where the US Open is hosted, is the largest tennis-specific stadium in the world. WIth a seating capacity of 23,000+, it’s named after Arthur Ashe who was the first African American male to win the US Open.
3. Equal prize money
Sports are always accompanied by the proverbial battle of the sexes and tennis is no exception. Thanks to the efforts of Billie Jean King, in 1973 the US Open became the first Grand Slam event to offer equal prize money to male and female players.
4. Grass to hard courts
Until 1974, the US Open was a grass-court standard for tennis matches. It switched to clay courts before landing on hard courts in 1978. Tennis enthusiasts believe that the hard court creates a faster and more intense playing ground.
5. Super Saturday
“Super Saturday” was a tradition of the US Open from 1984 to 2007 in which men’s and women’s semifinal matches were played in one marathon Saturday during the tournament.
6. A ball person’s selection process
Each ball person at the US Open has to perform a series of tests for speed, agility and accuracy. Unlike other Grand Slam tournaments, there is no age restriction for a ball person, meaning anyone of any age can apply—as long as they have what it takes.
7. Sustainability
With an awareness of its climate impact, in 2008, the US Open launched a green initiative, which included recycling, energy efficient lighting, and recycled materials for printing tickets and other event assets.
8. Venus and Serena Williams
The Williams sisters are ubiquitous in the sport of tennis and have each left their mark on the tournament. Venus Williams holds 2 US Open titles (as well as 5 from Wimbledon). Younger sister, Serena Williams has 23 Grand Slam singles titles, 6 of which being wins at the US Open.
9. The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
The Arthur Ashe Stadium is part of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, which is a complex that features 22 courts located in Flushing Meadows.
10. Epic men’s final of 2008
Perhaps one of the most memorable finals to date in US Open history was the 2008 match between Roger Federer and Andy Murray. Culminating in a new record, Federer won his fifth consecutive US Open title.
From being the only tournament to feature regular night matches, to pioneering equal prize money, and hosting some of the most iconic finals in tennis history, the US Open offers a wealth of fascinating facts. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the sport, these US Open tennis facts provide a deeper appreciation for the excitement and legacy of this prestigious event.
