The Secret Pre-Qualifying Event That Determines the U.S. Open Field

The 2024 U.S. Open promises great competition on both the men's and women's sides. Novak Djokovic will seek his 25th Grand Slam title as defending champion, while Iga Świątek and Coco Gauff headline the women's draw after Gauff's victory last year.

But did you know there is a chance to see all these top players in action even before the main tournament begins? If you live in the New York City area, you can watch the U.S. Open qualifying rounds taking place right in your backyard. Just take the 7 train to Mets-Willets Point or the LIRR's Port Washington Branch from Penn Station. Best of all, admission to the qualifying matches is free, so you don't have to wait until the actual Open to get your tennis fix.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to scout the future stars up close before the excitement of the championships.

The return of U.S. Open Fan Week in 2022 was hugely popular after the challenges of the pandemic, welcoming everyone to freely enjoy the qualifying tournament and watch top players practice at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Continuing in 2024, fans can once again experience this special preview of the championships without needing tickets.

James Blake says that as someone who grew up attending the U.S. Open before becoming a professional, he knows how exciting it is to be here up close. Now fans have the opportunity to see some of the game's biggest names honing their skills in practice, as well as highly competitive qualifying matches, all for free.

By simply showing up at the tennis center, fans of all ages can benefit from Fan Week's inclusive atmosphere and soak in the electricity of the sport before the main tournament begins. Both aspiring players and long-time tennis enthusiasts will want to make the most of this special access.

Blake adds that you truly get to see some unbelievable tennis during this time. It's a really fun and special experience for fans. Blake himself took part in a legends match during 2022 Fan Week alongside Kim Clijsters, Bethanie Mattek-Sands, and Andy Roddick. As Blake referred to, the U.S. Open qualifying tournament takes place during Fan Week. In 2021, Emma Raducanu stunned the world by becoming the first qualifier ever to win a Grand Slam title after working her way through qualifying. This year's qualifying from August 19-22 allows 16 men and 16 women to potentially achieve their own dreams by securing a spot in the main draw. Fan Week presents the unique chance to witness the stars of tomorrow in their do-or-die performances to qualify.

It's not just the qualifying tournament providing exciting action during Fan Week. Many top players use this opportunity to get valuable practice matches before the tournament begins. In 2019, fans were treated to a special practice between Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

Courts around the grounds will regularly feature practicing pros throughout the week. Fans can view sessions on Arthur Ashe Stadium by registering online for a free "Fan Access Pass." It's the perfect chance to watch stars honing their skills up close.
Aside from practices and qualifying matches, Fan Week hosts entertaining events for fans. The "Mixed Madness" exhibition will feature pairings like Coco Gauff/Ben Shelton and Naomi Osaka/Nick Kyrgios playing doubles. Wednesday brings an exhibition match slated to include Novak Djokovic, John McEnroe, Carlos Alcaraz, and Andre Agassi among others.

Foodies will enjoy sampling from top chef's international dishes at the annual "Flavors of the Open" on Thursday. Plus, souvenir shops allow fans to gear up for the tournament while enjoying the breezy atmosphere. With so much accessible action and festivities, Fan Week is certainly worth the trip for any tennis enthusiast.