Chaos at the US Open: Fans Boo Delay in Stadium Access
The start of the US Open final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner was marred by a delay that generated frustration and boos among the fans present. Additional security measures, implemented due to the presence of former President Donald Trump at Arthur Ashe Stadium, caused a half-hour delay in the start of the match, resulting in long lines and extended wait times. Despite the announced delay, thousands of fans had still not managed to enter the stadium when the game finally began. Some attendees expressed that they were not informed about the possibility of such a long wait upon arriving at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.A sign on the giant screen above the stadium entrance informed fans about the half-hour delay due to “security measures”, but some claimed that was the first time they had heard about it. Fans in the queue looked for ways to pass the time, some even bought ice cream. Sinner commented that he didn’t realize there were fewer people than usual for a major final when the match started. USTA spokesman Brendan McIntyre reported that emails were sent to ticket holders on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and a message was sent to the US Open app at 9 a.m. on Sunday. However, many fans did not receive the information, with thousands of people still stuck in a line that stretched to the practice courts. The television broadcast showed images of the crowds, and commentator Chris Fowler noted that it seemed as though the fans “were not adequately informed to prepare for this.” A fan commented that, had she known how much time it would take, she would have gone directly to the stadium entrance line instead of visiting the shops and food stalls. The match was broadcast on giant screens above the entrance so that the fans could follow it while they waited.We recognize that the enhanced security measures for the President’s visit to the US Open may have contributed to delays for attendees. We sincerely thank all fans for their patience and understanding.
Secret Service
