How The US Open Became a New York Tradition

And the business behind America’s biggest sporting event

Whatsup Squad,

NYC’s favorite sporting event is finally underway.

The US Open, offering a record $75 million in prize money this year, is about more than tennis—it’s an economic powerhouse for the Big Apple.

The US Open’s Expanding Reach

Since 1978, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens has hosted the final Grand Slam of the tennis calendar.

The crown jewel of this facility, Arthur Ashe Stadium, holds over 23,000 spectators, making it by far the largest tennis stadium in the world.

And this year’s tournament is poised to break attendance records.

The USTA is aiming to attract 1 million fans, and they’re already off to a great start.

74,641 fans attended Monday’s official opening day—the most for a single day in tournament history.

The tournament structure is specifically designed to boost tennis’ accessibility to mass audiences.

Source: City University of New York (CUNY)

The sustained growth in attendance is a testament to New York’s ability to handle a massive influx of visitors.

The Fan Experience Extends Beyond the Court

The US Open attracts not only tennis fans, but also influencers, celebrities, and the who’s who of New York.

Social media has amplified its status as the must-attend social event of the season.

And the brand partnerships touch every point of the fan journey.

BLADE offers an exclusive helicopter service for Equinox Hotel guests, making their journey to the action as seamless as possible.

But the fan favorite is the Grey Goose Honey Deuce cocktail.

The Grey Goose Honey Deuce is a raspberry lemonade infused with Grey Goose vodka and a honeydew melon ball garnish.

Since debuting in 2007, the official drink of the U.S. Open has become the most Instagrammable moment of the entire fan experience.

At last year’s event, the US Open sold 450,000 Honey Deuces at $22 each, generating $9.9 million in revenue.

Further enhancing the off-court experience, the drink is now available for delivery to New Yorkers’ doors during the tournament.

Economic Impact

The US Open generates an impressive $750 million in direct economic impact for New York City and provides employment for over 7,000 people.