The US Open, one of tennis’s four Grand Slam tournaments, takes place on the frenetic courts of New York City. This year, the tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center has dazzled the senses. It is a true and beautifully crafted love letter to the crazy, dynamic chaos that is city life. The US Open allures us with its intoxicating audio and visual pleasures. It attracts crazy fans, it provides mesmerizing shock and awe, so that makes it a weird, wonderful, often polarizing spectacle on the planet earth.
Over the weekend, Daniil Medvedev faced off against Benjamin Bonzi in Louis Armstrong Stadium, showcasing the high-level competition that characterizes the tournament. It’s not just the matches that captivates. The overwhelming scale and crackling energy of Arthur Ashe Stadium make it easy for fans to wander around and continue talking while live points are in play. This phenomenon is a testament to the palpable exuberance that permeates this matchmaker’s paradise otherwise known as the US Open.
The Chaotic Yet Enriching Atmosphere
New York, sometimes characterized as an “assault on the senses,” is an ideal setting for this all-or-nothing competition. That US Open atmosphere can be ear-splittingly electric, producing a rarefied experience for both players and fans. Molly McElwee, a 2023 US Open semifinalist, at peace within this disorder.
“I guess I find peace in the chaos.” – Ben Shelton
Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton prospered on this electric atmosphere. The energy in the stands is electric, much more like a World Cup final than an Olympic Games tennis competition. The intensely partisan crowd has the power to change allegiances in the middle of a match, furthering the match’s chaotic, unpredictable atmosphere.
Emma Navarro has been pleasantly surprised by the casual vibe at the US Open, especially after playing in other high-profile tournaments such as Wimbledon. She went on to talk about the special culture of the atmosphere where fans are empowered to have fun and express themselves.
“It makes me feel like not all the focus is on me. People are here for the event and, you know, they’re grabbing a beer, eating their hot dog. It’s a sporting event for them.” – Emma Navarro
A New Era of Sensory Experiences
That celebratory atmosphere of the US Open isn’t without significant drama and contestation. Fellow players have pointed out how the pungent aroma of weed pervades the atmosphere. This whiff of skunk is a result of a 2021 legislative action that legalized recreational use for adults over 21 in New York. Casper Ruud went so far as to call it “the worst part” of the atmosphere.
“I’m not a big fan of the smell of weed when you walk around. Every corner of every street, you smell it.” – Casper Ruud
The tournament’s late-year timing extends this wonderful energy to a degree. Turning pro, players soon discover that keeping their energy levels in check is just as important as how well they perform on the hardwood.
“You really need to have your energy up all the time. It maybe saps some of the players’ energy, and it’s kind of who can live with the city, who can live with that atmosphere.” – Unattributed Source
The whistling, clapping, encouragement, netspeak insults and beyond, the all-consuming bloodthirst of the stadium can be oppressive. French player Benjamin Bonzi commented on this firsthand during his match.
“It was so noisy, I never thought to wait so long before a point and between points.” – Benjamin Bonzi
Memorable Moments in an Electric Environment
The US Open has a history of creating unforgettable moments, notably during Serena Williams’ 2022 run when the crowd showcased its best support. Molly McElwee looked back on that experience, calling it something special in terms of the synergy created between fans.
“The crowd noise during that run for her was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.” – Molly McElwee
This buzz-inducing environment incites players to show out & as fans, we deserve world-class performers. Nothing quite compares to playing at the US Open for young American Ben Shelton.
“For me, there is no feeling like it. That’s my personal opinion. But that’s where I have always felt at home playing and the reason I feel like I play my best tennis there.” – Ben Shelton
Each players’ matches are a blur of distractions and exciting arenas. They experience confusion driven by fanatic fandom. Finally, Jacob Fearnley reminisced about an unfortunate and pretty common experience as a fan… The story of a fan switching sides during your match.
“I wanted to say something. He switched quick. It wasn’t abuse, just confusing and extremely loud. He didn’t say a nice thing after that.” – Jacob Fearnley
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