Controversial night sessions aren’t going anywhere at the US Open as officials double down on the late-night extravaganza which they feel defines their over-the-top event.
The loud, in-your-face pace of New York fits in perfectly with rowdy after-dark matches at the Grand Slam which starts in a week.
Rowdy fans fueled by cocktails and beer can have their say mid-match and elsewhere without fear of sanction in contests which habitually end well past the end of mainstream public transport hours.
Despite growing calls from players, media – and even some stranded fans – the Open has again refused to reconsider the future of their ticket-sales cash cow.
Tournament boss Stacey Allaster laid down the law in a pre-event media conference.
“At the moment we’re staying the course with two night matches,” the Canadian said. “In New York City there’s nothing like a night match in Arthur Ashe.
“They are some of the most historic and memorable moments for athletes.”
USTA CEO Lew Sherr also chimed in, echoing Allaster.
“Late-night tennis in New York City is synonymous with the US Open. It’s part of the excitement.
“In some respects it’s something that our fans love,…the city that never sleeps.
“We have an obligation to make sure the athletes’ health is put forward. But we also know that New York fans are energised by night matches.”
Players including WTA No. 1 Iga Swiatek and No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka have complained in recent weeks about the effect late finishes have the next day on competitors, while Novak Djokovic has supported that opinion.
