US Open Tickets

History of US Open Tennis

The US Open is one of the oldest and most iconic tennis tournaments in the world, dating back to 1881. Originally held in Newport, Rhode Island, it has grown into one of the four Grand Slam tournaments and is now hosted annually at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York. Unlike Wimbledon’s traditional grass, the US Open is played on hard courts, making it a fast and physically demanding competition that often delivers edge-of-your-seat drama.

Over the decades, the tournament has seen incredible champions leave their mark on its history, including legends like Jimmy Connors, Chris Evert, Andre Agassi, Venus Williams, Serena Williams, and Novak Djokovic. The US Open has developed a reputation for its vibrant atmosphere, electric night matches, and bold New York attitude—making it the most high-energy Grand Slam of them all.

Held over two weeks in late August and early September, the tournament features Men’s and Women’s singles, doubles, mixed doubles, juniors, and wheelchair events. Tickets to the US Open are always in high demand, especially for Arthur Ashe Stadium night sessions. Get your US Open 2026 tickets from Fanatix and experience tennis at its loudest and most exhilarating.

New York’s Signature Slam

The US Open isn’t just a tennis event—it’s a full-blown spectacle. Set in the cultural capital of the world, it draws a mix of sports fans, celebrities, Wall Street elites, and international visitors. The atmosphere is famously energetic and unapologetically American. Music blares between games, fans cheer mid-point, and night sessions under the lights bring a party-like feel that’s totally unique among the Slams.

There’s no royal box here—just the roar of 23,000 people packed into Arthur Ashe Stadium, the largest tennis arena in the world.

US Open Icons: Serena & Pete

Serena Williams is a New York native and a US Open legend. She won the Women’s Singles title six times and captivated home crowds with her fierce game, powerful serve, and unmatched mental strength. The 1999 tournament marked her first Grand Slam title—kickstarting one of the most dominant careers in sports history.

Pete Sampras is another American hero of the hard courts. With 5 US Open titles to his name, he dominated the 1990s with precision and calm under pressure. His final career match came in 2002, where he beat his longtime rival Andre Agassi in a fitting all-American finale.

US Open Records & Facts

• Most US Open Singles Titles (Women): Chris Evert and Serena Williams are tied with 6 titles each.
• Most US Open Singles Titles (Men): Jimmy Connors, Pete Sampras, and Roger Federer each have 5.
• Youngest Champion: Tracy Austin won the women’s title in 1979 at just 16 years old.
• Oldest Champion: Ken Rosewall was 35 when he won in 1970—proof age is just a number.

The Longest US Open Match

In 1992, Stefan Edberg and Michael Chang battled it out in the semifinals for 5 hours and 26 minutes—a record for the longest match in US Open history. Edberg won the match and went on to claim the title.

Prize Money & Equal Pay

The US Open was the first Grand Slam to offer equal prize money to men and women, a major milestone reached in 1973 thanks to the advocacy of Billie Jean King. In 2024, the total prize money reached $65 million, with both Men’s and Women’s Singles champions earning $3 million each. The tournament continues to lead in terms of player compensation and gender equality.

Umpires and Tech

US Open umpires are known for their efficiency and quick decision-making in the face of loud crowds and fast-paced rallies. In recent years, the US Open was also the first Grand Slam to adopt full electronic line calling for all courts, replacing traditional line judges entirely in favor of Hawk-Eye Live. The phrase “Out!” now comes from a computer voice, marking a new era in tennis officiating.

The Crowd & Culture

The US Open crowd is unlike any other. Expect passionate cheers, mid-point roars, and fans that aren’t afraid to show emotion. This crowd lives and breathes the action, especially during prime-time night matches at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Celebrities are often spotted courtside—from movie stars and fashion icons to athletes and musicians. While Wimbledon leans traditional, the US Open embraces style, flair, and fan interaction.

US Open Grounds & Stadiums

The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center includes 22 courts, including the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium, Louis Armstrong Stadium, and Grandstand. Ashe’s retractable roof ensures matches go on rain or shine, while outer courts bring fans closer to the action than any other Slam.

Access to the US Open can be achieved through a variety of ticketing methods:

• Standard Day and Night session tickets
• Grounds Passes (early round access to outer courts)
• Premium Hospitality Suites
• American Express Presales and Packages

How to Buy US Open 2026 Tickets

A trip to the US Open is a bucket-list experience for any tennis fan. Whether you’re after prime-time matches under the lights of Ashe or hoping to explore the outer courts in the New York sun, Fanatix is your trusted partner for US Open 2026 tickets. Be part of the Grand Slam that never sleeps.