The 2025 U.S. Open main draw is set to begin on Sunday, but Flushing Meadows has already become a festival of tennis fun with Fan Week starting today.
If you’ve missed Monday’s events, don’t worry: there’s plenty of opportunity to watch tennis’s brightest stars up close and experience other action and family-friendly fun at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens.
Whether you’re a die-hard tennis fanatic or just looking for a fun summer outing, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of U.S. Open Fan Week in New York City.
When Is U.S. Open Fan Week?
Fan Week runs from Monday, August 18, through Saturday, August 23, 2025, with the main draw now starting on Sunday, August 24 — one day earlier than in past years.
The grounds open daily at 9:30 AM Eastern, with most events and matches scheduled between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM. To make the most of fan week, be sure to register for a free U.S. Open Fan Access Pass here.
You’ll get a chance to win tickets to this year’s finals, along with access to the Arthur Ashe Stadium Experience, top player practices, and special experiences during Fan Week.
What’s Free During Fan Week?
Nearly everything.
Admission to the grounds is completely free during Fan Week, including access to outer courts, practices, the U.S. Open Fan Zone, and qualifying matches. Even select sessions inside Louis Armstrong Stadium and Grandstand are open to the public — no ticket required.
Here’s what’s happening throughout the week:
Qualifying Tournament (Aug. 18–23)
— Watch rising stars and seasoned veterans battle for a place in the U.S. Open main draw.
— 128 men and 128 women compete for 32 spots each.
Practice Sessions
— See top stars like Carlos Alcaraz, Coco Gauff, Iga Swiatek, and Novak Djokovic fine-tune their games.
— Practice courts are open all day with schedules posted on-site and in the U.S. Open app.
Fan Experience Zone
— Great for families and kids: test your serve, take a selfie with the trophy, or explore interactive sponsor activations.
Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day (Saturday, Aug. 23)
A family favorite returns! This interactive festival includes kid-friendly games, music, and a live show inside Arthur Ashe Stadium featuring players, celebrities, and entertainers.
What Requires a Ticket?
While most of Fan Week is free, a few special events require tickets — and they’re worth the price.
U.S. Open Mixed Doubles Championship (Aug. 19–20)
New in 2025, this high-profile event brings together top stars, including Venus Williams, in a two-day competition. While many sessions are free to attend, prime-time seats in Arthur Ashe Stadium may require a ticket.
Here’s a full guide to the Mixed Doubles tournament.
Stars of the Open (Thursday Night)
A benefit exhibition in Arthur Ashe Stadium featuring current pros and legends playing for a cause.
Expect fun matchups, celebrity appearances, and high-energy tennis under the lights. Proceeds go toward tennis and youth development programs.
Tips for First-Timers
Arrive early for the best views at practice courts and matches.
Download the U.S. Open app for maps, schedules, and updates.
Expect lines at popular matches and events — especially in Armstrong and the Fan Zone.
Plan for sun — there’s not a lot of shade on the outer courts. The forecast for this week calls for relatively cool August temperatures — with highs in the upper 70s and lower 80s.
Getting There
Subway: Take the 7 Train to Mets-Willets Point.
Long Island Railroad (LIRR): Take the Port Washington Branch from Grand Central or Penn Station to Mets-Willets Point. A more comfortable option than the subway.
Driving: Paid parking is available in lots near Citi Field and Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Note, the New York Mets play at home from August 25-31 — so you’ll have to compete with baseball fans for parking.
Final Serve
U.S. Open Fan Week is one of the best free sports events in New York — and it’s not too late to join the fun.
From up-close practices and thrilling qualifiers to paid events like Stars of the Open and Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day, there’s something for everyone this week in Queens.
Be sure to explore Flushing, Queens —it’s home to New York City’s largest Chinatown, with incredible food, shopping, and cultural experiences.
And don’t forget: for the first time, the main draw begins Sunday, not Monday.
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