2025 U.S. Open Begins With Historic 15-Day Format and Exciting Opening Performances

The 2025 U.S. Open commenced on August 24 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City, marking the first time the tournament has adopted a 15-day format with a Sunday start. This historic change aims to enhance fan engagement and align the U.S. Open with other Grand Slam events.

The opening day showcased a blend of tradition and innovation, featuring impressive performances from top-seeded players and historic victories that set the tone for an exciting tournament.

Tournament Format Change

The U.S. Open's shift to a 15-day schedule, starting on a Sunday, aligns it with the Australian Open and the French Open, both of which have adopted similar formats. This change introduces six new ticketed sessions on the opening Sunday, offering reserved seats for Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium, as well as general grounds admission. The first rounds of the men's and women's singles are now spread over three days, from Sunday to Tuesday, providing players with more rest between matches.

Player Reactions

The format change has elicited mixed reactions from players. Some, like Jordan Thompson and Jessica Pegula, have expressed concerns that the extended schedule may disrupt player routines and prolong recovery times, especially for those participating in tournaments the week prior. Pegula highlighted the lack of player input in major decisions, referencing a letter signed by 20 players advocating for better communication and revenue sharing.

Opening Day Highlights

• Aryna Sabalenka: The defending women's singles champion and world number one overcame a challenging start to defeat Rebeka Masarova 7-5, 6-1, advancing to the second round.

• Emma Raducanu: The 2021 U.S. Open champion secured her first win at the tournament since her title run, defeating Ena Shibahara 6-1, 6-2.

• Ben Shelton: The sixth-seeded American began his campaign with a commanding straight-sets victory over Peruvian qualifier Ignacio Buse, winning 6-3, 6-2, 6-4.

• Taylor Fritz: The fourth-seeded American and last year's runner-up defeated fellow American Emilio Nava 7-5, 6-2, 6-3.

• Alexandra Eala: The 20-year-old made history by becoming the first Filipino player to win a main draw match at a Grand Slam in the professional era, overcoming 14th seed Clara Tauson 6-3, 2-6, 7-6(11).

Implications

• Fan Engagement: The extended schedule aims to enhance the fan experience by adding six new ticketed sessions on the opening Sunday, offering reserved seats for Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium, as well as general grounds admission.

• Player Welfare: The format change has elicited mixed reactions from players. Some, like Jordan Thompson and Jessica Pegula, have expressed concerns that the extended schedule may disrupt player routines and prolong recovery times, especially for those participating in tournaments the week prior. Pegula highlighted the lack of player input in major decisions, referencing a letter signed by 20 players advocating for better communication and revenue sharing.

The 2025 U.S. Open's historic Sunday start and extended format have set the stage for a tournament that balances tradition with innovation. As the competition unfolds, the performances of both seasoned champions and emerging talents will be closely watched, reflecting the evolving landscape of professional tennis.