Are you wanting to visit the 2007 US Open, but have found yourself a little strapped for cash? Don’t worry, our handy guide of tips can help you see the best tennis the world has to offer and still leave the grounds with a few pennies in your back pocket.
Buy a Grounds Pass
If you can’t afford to shell out the money for a ticket in Arthur Ashe, consider buying a grounds pass for the day. This way you’ll still be able to watch top quality tennis – and take in the intimate experience of a Grand Slam. Often, especially during the first few days of the tournament, you’ll be surprised to see how many of your favorites are hitting away on the outside courts.
Catch the Practice Courts
Dying to catch a glimpse of Maria Sharapova without paying big bucks for a stadium ticket? Get on the grounds of the National Tennis Center as soon as the gates open and you may be able to see some of the top stars hitting away on the practice courts. Be aware, seating next to the practice courts fills fast – especially when the top women are out – but often you can get close enough to snap a few pictures through the fence or stand at the top of the neighboring court’s bleachers.
Buy Your Official US Open Gear after the Tournament
Sure, who doesn’t want a piece of memorabilia to show all the folks back home? But, beware, brand-new official merchandise is never cheap, and often limited, especially if the weather turns south. Buying after the tournament will often save you a few bucks if you catch the USTA’s post-US Open sale – or even think about checking on eBay. If you must have your 2007 gear immediately, t-shirts and caps are probably your best bets on a budget. Last year the USTA was selling used balls at a somewhat decent price. The only problem: the balls were hit by “pros”, but you had no clue whether it was hit by Serena Williams or a qualifier who lost in the first round.
Been to the US Open and have a few tips of your own? Share them with us in the comments below! Also, be sure to come back for part two tomorrow!
Those are great tips. Especially the one about the official gear.
[...] In case you missed the first part of On the Baseline’s US Open tips, you can check them out here. [...]
t worry, our handy guide of tips can help you see the best tennis the world has to offer and still leave the grounds with a few pennie