The US Open is a classic knock-out tennis tournament. Like the other 3 Grand Slams it contains 5 main draws: men's singles, women's singles, men's doubles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles. Matches in the men's singles are played to the best of 5 sets, whilst matches in the men's doubles, women's singles and doubles, and mixed draws are all played to the best of 3. The singles draws take place over 7 rounds, whilst the doubles draws take place over 5.
Wheelchair tennis also features at the US Open; there are highly competitive singles and doubles draws, which are integrated into the tournament across its 2 weeks.
As of 2022, the US Open, along with the other 3 Grand Slams, introduced a 10-point tie-break in the final set, in the event of the score reaching 6 games each. This has been enacted in all draws except mixed doubles, junior doubles, and wheelchair doubles; these draws will see the 10-point tie-break take place instead of a final set.
On-site food & drink
The Food Village in the centre of the tournament grounds is a very popular place to grab something to eat or drink. The Village is populated by an array of individual vendors: tacos, seafood, Indian curries, fries, and ice cream are just a few of the savoury and sweet treats available throughout the tournament.
Spectators wishing to enjoy a more formal, sit-down meal can head to a number of eateries. The stylish US Open Club - located on the ground floor of Arthur Ashe Stadium - is open to all ticket holders, or you can head just outside the Club to the Red Star Patio Café, and enjoy the sun with a drink or light bite. There are also multiple concessions and bars on the South Plaza.
Holders of select premium tickets have inclusive access to the Aces restaurant and Champions Bar & Grill, both located between gates 3 and 4 of Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Outside food
Small amounts of food may be brought into the venue. The following food and drink items are however not permitted to be brought into the tournament from outside the grounds:
Water fountains
There are 44 drinking fountains located throughout the grounds, including at the 3 main show courts, the South Plaza, and by the practice courts. Spectators are permitted to bring in un-sealed, reusable metal or plastic water bottles, measuring no more than 24 oz., but glass bottles and cans are prohibited.
There are 2 main gates, the East gate, and the South gate. Spectators are generally directed to a specific gate via Flushing Meadows Corona Park, depending on where they have parked, or disembarked from public transport.
All guests will be screened by security personnel upon entry. For a full list of prohibited items, click here.
Restrooms and accessible restrooms are located throughout the grounds. All facilities include spaces for baby changing, and private nursing rooms can be found at the Grandstand Court and Louis Armstrong Stadium first aid stations.
Accessibility
Accessible vertical access is provided via ramps and elevators, with escalators available for guests who are able to walk.
Wheelchair access to Arthur Ashe Stadium, as well as many of the outdoor and smaller courts, can be found via the South Plaza; wheelchair access to Louis Armstrong Stadium can be found along New York Avenue. A wheelchair escort service is also available on request, on a first-come, first-served basis; contact the venue Command Center upon arrival to enquire.
Assistance dogs
Assistance animals are welcome at the US Open, but they must be on a lead or similar tether or harness, unless this prevents the animals from performing their assistive roles or is not possible for the individual requiring the service animal. Assistance animals must not block aisles, steps, or any other gangways.
Information points
There is a central information point located by the food village in the centre of the complex.
Lost property
Lost and found is located on the ground floor of Louis Armstrong Stadium. To claim an item of lost property when off-site, call the venue Command Center: 718-760-6264.
Luggage hold
There are paid luggage holds at the East and South Gates.
First aid
There are 6 first aid points located throughout the tournament grounds:
ATMs
There are ATMs located throughout the venue site, including by the South, East, and West Gates.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the tournament grounds.
Phone charging
Complimentary phone chargers can be hired from Chase charging stations or booths, which are situated around the grounds, including by the Food Village.
