US Open 2025: All the Basics You Need

If you love tennis, the US Open is the biggest summer event on the calendar. This year it kicks off on August 26 and runs until September 8 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Fleet in Flushing Meadows, New York. The courts are hard‑court, so you’ll see fast rallies and powerful serves. Knowing the schedule, the top players, and ticket options will help you enjoy every match without the guesswork.

Key Dates and Venue Details

The main draw starts on a Thursday (August 26) and ends on a Sunday (September 8). Qualifying rounds begin a week earlier, on August 19, giving lower‑ranked players a chance to earn a spot in the main event. All matches are held at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, which has 22 courts, including the famous Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Getting to the venue is easy. The Mets – Willets Point subway station is right next to the complex, and there are plenty of bus routes. If you drive, expect traffic on game days, so plan to arrive early. The site also offers free Wi‑Fi, food courts, and family‑friendly zones, so you can stay comfortable between sets.

Who to Watch: Top Players

On the men’s side, defending champion Novak Djokovic is back, hoping to add another Grand Slam to his record. He’ll face fresh challengers like Carlos Alcaraz, who surprised everyone with his speed and baseline play last year. On the women’s side, Iga Swiatek is the favorite after a strong season on clay, while Aryna Sabalenka brings big power to the hard courts.

Keep an eye on rising stars too. American teen Coco Gauff is set to make a deep run in the women’s draw, and Australian Mackenzie McDonald could cause an upset in the men’s bracket. These players often bring the most exciting matches, so mark their match times on your calendar.

For daily updates, the official US Open app provides live scores, player interviews, and court‑side photos. You can set alerts for your favorite players so you never miss a point.

Ticket prices vary by day and court. Ground‑level tickets for the early rounds start around $50, while seats at Arthur Ashe for the finals can go over $400. If you’re on a budget, consider a stadium‑wide pass that lets you watch multiple courts from a single seat. Early‑bird discounts are usually available until two weeks before the tournament.

When you buy tickets, use only the official US Open website or authorized partners. This protects you from scams and guarantees you a real seat. If you’re traveling from outside the U.S., look for package deals that combine tickets, hotel stays, and airport transfers – they often save you money.

Watching the US Open at home is also simple. In the U.S., ESPN holds the broadcast rights, streaming via ESPN+ on phones, tablets, and smart TVs. International viewers can tune into local sports channels or use the official US Open live‑stream on the tournament’s website, which offers multiple court angles.

Finally, make the most of your experience by planning ahead. Check the match schedule each morning, grab a snack from the food court, and wear comfortable shoes. Whether you’re cheering in the stands or watching on a screen, the US Open 2025 promises high‑energy tennis and unforgettable moments.