The qualifying matches of the United States Open Tennis They will be closed to the public, as reported this Thursday in a statement by the American Tennis Association (USTA, its acronym in English).
“This was a particularly difficult decision for the USTA to make, given the enormous popularity of the US Open qualifying matches among fans, “the organization noted in the text, which noted that this conclusion was reached by” health and safety “after consulting with” health and safety “authorities. local health “.
In the qualifying matches, which this year are held from 24 to 27 August, A large number of people are concentrated in Flushing Meadows, since hundreds of players congregate there along with their coaches and their support staff, totaling about 2,500 people, said the organization.
Outdoor dining rooms
Also, this year, to try to reduce the number of people indoors due to the coronavirus pandemic, some of the facilities, such as recreational areas or dining rooms, have moved to the exterior spaces of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
“Therefore, there is not enough space to allow access to the venue to the fans and at the same time guarantee the safety of both the players and the fans, which continues to be our main priority, “the letter added.
Top tennis stars to participate in the US Open this year, in which, unlike the previous edition, it is necessary to have the public presence in the main draw matches.
The current number 1 of the ATP, Novak Djokovic, and his eternal rivals, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, will participate in the New York tournament, in addition to the most prominent figures of the women’s circuit, such as Serena Williams, Ashleigh Barty and Naomi Osaka.
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