In the game of tennis, nobody starts at zero. “Love” is what players say to indicate they have zero points and the game is beginning. Things are tied 0-0; the score is “Love-Love.” Or, most likely, they’ll say “Love all.”
Sure it’s a different meaning for the word love, but the sentiment permeates the game of tennis when players convene on New York once every year for the US Open—one of the biggest tennis events in the world. There are tense matches and stiff competition, but also concerts, food and plenty of free events to celebrate the simple love of the game.
This year’s US Open is no different. Through August 22, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens will be hosting the Qualifying Tournament, where 128 men and 128 women will play for more than $1.5 million in prize money. The competition will be high, but the price to attend won’t be – it’s free and open to everyone.
Once the pressure subsides (a little), you can see the world’s top players during Open Practice Day on August 24, yet another free event that’s open to everyone. Or for another tournament option, show young up-and-coming players support by attending the exciting American Collegiate Invitational September 4-6. All you need is a grounds tickets—no need to snag an individual ticket to the stadium.
The joy of a professional tennis match is watching the nail-biting strategy play out; a single groundstroke can mean the difference between victory and defeat. Meanwhile, these practice sessions are a chance to see the greats show off everything they’ve got—tactical perfection replaced with pure joy for the game. For more information, visit http://www.usopen.org/ and http://www.usopen.org/tickets.
