The US Open is set to undergo a significant transformation in 2025, as the United States Tennis Association (USTA) has announced that the tournament will expand to 15 days and begin on a Sunday for the first time in the Open Era. This historic change will offer fans greater access to the Grand Slam event and accommodate the growing demand for tickets.
Key Details of the Change
For the first time in history, the US Open main draw will start on a Sunday, August 24, 2025, instead of the traditional Monday start. The tournament will now conclude on Sunday, September 7, 2025. The expansion aims to provide more opportunities for fans to witness live matches, with the USTA estimating an additional 70,000 attendees due to the extra day.
The decision follows a surge in interest over recent years, with 2024 marking the third consecutive year of record-breaking attendance. Over one million spectators attended the event last year, with the opening day setting a record for the highest single-day attendance at 74,641.
Enhanced Fan Experience
The 15-day format will introduce six new ticketed sessions on the opening Sunday. Reserved seats will be available for both Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium, with additional access to Grandstand reserved seats and general Grounds Admission.
The tournament schedule will remain largely unchanged after the first round, ensuring the same competitive structure for players. The first rounds of the men’s and women’s singles will be played across the first three days, from Sunday to Tuesday.
“With more planned main draw competition days than ever and Fan Week featuring six days of free grounds admission prior to the main draw, the 2025 US Open is set to offer the most access for fans in the event’s 145-year history,” the USTA stated in its announcement.
Following Global Trends
The US Open’s decision aligns with a trend among Grand Slam tournaments. The Australian Open expanded to a 15-day event in 2024, while the French Open first introduced a Sunday start in 2006. Wimbledon is now the only Major tournament that begins on a Monday.
Recent US Open Champions
Last year, World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka claimed the women’s singles title, defeating Jessica Pegula in the final, while Jannik Sinner secured the men’s singles crown with a victory over American Taylor Fritz. Both champions will aim to defend their titles in the revamped 2025 edition.
Main Photo Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
