Exhilarating tennis at the 2024 US Open

There’s a tangible, special atmosphere that can be felt at the “Grand Slams”, the four biggest tennis events of the year, and each one has its own unique character. While the US Open has the longest history of any Grand Slam, the main appeal of a visit to Flushing Meadows in the NYC borough of Queens, involves more than simply tradition. No, you go here for the noisy, raucous atmosphere inside the world’s largest tennis stadium, just a short drive from one of the most exciting metropolises in the world.

The contrast couldn’t be greater compared to Wimbledon, where the well-heeled, dapperly clad fans chase down their strawberry and cream appetizers with glasses of Dom Perignon. You’re welcome to come as you are to the US Open, simply take subway line 7 from Grand Central Station to Arthur Ashe Stadium and buy some classic, down-home food from one of the endless line of food trucks parked outside the stadium and adjacent courts. Just as in New York City, you’ll find a melting pot of different races and cultures gathered here each year from late-August to early-September to experience the festive, carnival atmosphere of the US Open.

While there are many popular sporting events in the US, this is absolutely the creme de la creme. Make sure you catch a few matches at Arthur Ashe Stadium just to experience the atmosphere. With its capacity of 23,771 people, this is the largest tennis arena in the world. But whatever you do, don’t miss out on the side matches on the adjacent courts as the pulsating beat of the loudspeakers and the big city vibe give them a truly special atmosphere. If you want to see one of the brightest stars on the men’s or ladies’ tour without digging a hole in your wallet, make sure to plan your visit for the first week of the 2-week-long tournament.

When? 26 August 2024 –8 September 2024

Where? Flushing Meadows, Queens, New York, USA

Text by Oskar Åsgård