US Open Experience takes over lower Manhattan
On top of the youth fun, the US Open draw ceremony is open to the
Walking down Fulton Street will look a little bit different in the lead up to the US Open. The USTA has taken over Seaport for the US Open Experience. The fun stretch of the lower Manhattan block boasts a covered stage, youth-sized courts, food and drink stands (complimentary Lavazza coffee anyone?) and even a replica of the famous Flushing Meadows Unisphere.
Thursday opened with a Net Generation clinic with coaches, including 17-time doubles Grand Slam champion Gigi Fernandez, helping children learn the game. With red balls and child-sized racquets flying everywhere, a slew of US Open players showed up to lend a hand, and a hit.
The stars included Tommy Paul, Alison Riske, Jennifer Brady, Kayla Day and Chris Eubanks. Pop culture wasn’t far behind with appearances by YouTube sensation Alex Aiono and New Hope Club, both set to perform at Arthur Ashe Kids Day on Saturday.
Day, just 17, isn’t too far removed from her youth play days. The 2016 US Open girls champion is competing in the main draw next week thanks to a wildcard, but the world No. 126 hasn’t forgotten how it all began for her.
“When I first started I remember I used a racquet that was probably double the weight of the racquet I use now,” Day told Baseline. “It was normal balls, normal court, so it was definitely a lot harder. I had terrible technique and pretty bad footwork, everything was kind of awkward.
“It’s definitely better for the kids to start with that good foundation.”
Net Generation is the USTA’s new initiative to inspire the next generation of tennis players. American tennis will finally have one unified youth brand to encourage children to pick up the game. The movement targets children ages 5-18, and officially launches on Saturday at Arthur Ashe Kids Day.
“Net Generation is a bold approach to empower kids to play the game while elevating and setting new standards on how we deliver and engage children in our sport,” said Craig Morris, General Manger of USTA Community Tennis and Youth Tennis. “These efforts will make a lasting impact to help drive youth participation throughout the country. There is no bigger and better stage than the US Open to launch the brand.”
The US Open Experience will also play host to the official draw ceremony on Friday at 12 p.m. It’s the first time ever that the draw will be unveiled in front of the general public. Marin Cilic and Angelique Kerber will be at the Seaport to assist.