The US Open is in full swing in New York City, drawing in spectators, including celebrities like Serena Williams and Kerry Washington, who gather at the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center to enjoy thrilling matches and sip on signature cocktails. However, for the players, the experience is vastly different. In recent interviews, Aryna Sabalenka, the 2023 US Open runner-up and current semifinalist, and Stan Wawrinka, the 2016 US Open champion, shared some behind-the-scenes details about what it’s like to compete in this high-stakes tournament.
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Sabalenka described the unique challenges of playing at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the largest venue at the US Open, which can be overwhelming due to the immense noise levels from the crowd. “When fans get really loud cheering at the main stadium, it’s crazy for players to handle,” she explained, noting that the noise “goes right on the player.” With a capacity of 23,771, Arthur Ashe Stadium is nearly 9,000 seats larger than other Grand Slam center courts, which amplifies the sound and creates a more intense atmosphere. Tennis star Novak Djokovic has also commented on these challenging acoustics, attributing the echo and noise levels to the stadium’s size and roof construction.
Many people might assume that professional tennis players have the freedom to choose their on-court attire, but that’s often not the case. Sabalenka revealed that her sponsor, Nike, selects her outfits for tournaments, a practice common among athletes under contract with major brands. These companies use player appearances to showcase their latest designs, limiting the athletes’ personal choices. According to Eric Butorac of the USTA, players are required to wear clothing from approved manufacturers, and there are strict rules about the size and placement of logos.
The intense pressure of the US Open has prompted the USTA to implement a Mental Health Initiative, offering players access to quiet rooms, licensed mental health professionals, and other supportive services. Wawrinka emphasized the importance of these resources, stating, “Mentally preparing is just as crucial as physical training.” The quiet rooms provide a space for players to “reset” before matches, allowing them to relax and focus away from the noise and energy of the tournament. These rooms also include beds, which are especially useful for players who have matches scheduled late into the night.
While players warming up on the court before matches is a familiar sight, fewer people know that they often share indoor warm-up facilities as well. Sabalenka mentioned that, although players generally keep to their routines in these shared spaces, she is not bothered by the presence of others. The indoor warm-up areas at the US Open are equipped with exercise bikes and screens displaying live matches, providing an environment conducive to both physical and mental preparation.
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The Honey Deuce might be the most famous cocktail at the US Open, but it’s not the only drink available to spectators. This year, Sabalenka introduced her own cocktail, the “Marg-Aryna,” in collaboration with Maestro Dobel Tequila. This drink, a twist on the classic margarita, features light agave, tropical fruit flavors, and a Tajín rim, and is available to fans at the tournament. Sabalenka sees it as a way to add a personal touch to the event and to celebrate her victories, joking after a recent match that she might treat the crowd to drinks to gain their support.
Finally, being part of the US Open ball crew is more competitive than many might realize. Out of 1,200 applicants who applied online, only 500 were chosen to try out in person for a final crew of fewer than 200. These tryouts are rigorous, involving drills that test agility, speed, and tennis knowledge. Tiahnne Noble, the director of the US Open Ball Crew, explained that the position is “highly sought-after,” highlighting the dedication and skill required to be selected.
Key Points:
i. The noise in Arthur Ashe Stadium creates a challenging atmosphere for players due to its large capacity and acoustics.
ii. Players’ outfits are typically chosen by sponsors, limiting their personal choice in attire.
iii. The US Open provides mental health resources, including quiet rooms, to help players manage stress.
iv. Players share indoor warm-up facilities, fostering a focused yet communal preparation environment.
v. The tournament features custom player cocktails, such as Aryna Sabalenka’s “Marg-Aryna,” adding a personal touch for fans.
Lap Fu Ip – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
