In anticipation of Serena Williams’ opening match in the U.S. Open women’s singles tournament at 7 o’clock on Monday, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is starting to fill up with happy spectators.
On Wednesday, Williams will play doubles with her sister, Venus Williams, according to CBS2’s John Dias.
“If I see Serena, I’m going to scream,” said Barbara Taylor, from Arkansas.
When Taylor and her husband received their tickets, they decided to stay longer in New York City.
“This is a bucket list item for me. I have got to go to the U.S. Open and the fact that it’s Serena’s retirement, I can’t believe it. It’s a dream come true,” said Taylor.
When Taylor and her husband received their tickets, they decided to stay longer in New York City.
“It has to happen to everyone eventually,” one fan said.
“We love retirement, so you go girl,” said another.
“In so many ways, this is a tribute to Serena Williams,” said Elizabeth Morancy, from Middletown, Rhode Island.
According to some analysts, Williams’ announcement made this year’s U.S. Open tickets the most in-demand tennis tickets ever.
“The ticket sales were off the charts before Serena’s announcement. It really just went to a whole new level. She’s an incredibly special athlete. What she’s meant to the sport is unlike anybody else,” said Daniel Zausner, chief operating officer for the National Tennis Center.
American Express revived its fan experience for the first time since 2019 with several distinctive spaces filled with engaging tennis games.
Tennis enthusiasts claimed that the variety of events and matches keeps them coming back.
New Jersey native Tyler Neil described the energy as being “electric and awesome” at all times.
Tight security goes along with the fun. The NYPD claimed that the entire area is under protection even though there are no credible threats.
“Some of the security measures you will see. Others you will not,” said NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell.
“The U.S. Open is one of the most heavily attended sporting events in the world and we will have around the clock security,” said NYPD Chief of Patrol Jeffrey Maddrey.
A record-breaking 737,000 spectators watched the U.S. Open in 2019. Some officials predict even higher attendance this year.