Frustration at the US Open Final
As the US Open final unfolded, a significant number of fans found themselves frustrated with delays that left them outside Arthur Ashe Stadium, leading to chants of “Let us in! Let us in!” just as the match between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner commenced. The start of the eagerly anticipated match, originally scheduled for 2 p.m. EDT, was pushed back by thirty minutes due to enhanced security measures linked to President Donald Trump’s attendance.
Security Measures and Communication Issues
Many spectators were caught off guard by the extended wait, arriving at the Billy Jean King National Tennis Center only to find that the typical entry process was complicated by additional checks. While the Secret Service acknowledged that the President’s presence necessitated a comprehensive security operation, they expressed appreciation for the fans’ understanding and patience.
Fans were informed of the match’s delay via a video board message that announced the new start time as 2:30 p.m., but for many, this was their first notification regarding the delays. Diana Diaz, who traveled from Florida with her fiancé, described the lack of communication as frustrating, noting that passengers on airplanes receive timely updates about delays. While Diaz previously attended the women’s final without issue, she found the situation unacceptable, particularly as she, along with others, stood in line eating ice cream to pass the time.
Mixed Reactions from Attendees
Though U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) officials stated that emails were sent to ticket holders the days leading up to the match, many attendees reported that they missed these messages. Captured in video coverage, broadcaster Chris Fowler pointed out the considerable crowds still waiting to enter the stadium as the match began, suggesting that fans were not adequately informed about the potential wait times.
A sign of the match being displayed on large screens helped alleviate the situation slightly, allowing those stuck in line to follow the action while they waited. Despite these attempts at communication, some fans expressed regret over their choice to explore shops and concession stands instead of proceeding directly to the entrance, wishing they had been better warned about the delays they would encounter.
