US Open Attendance Soars to Record High, But Etiquette Chaos Ensues

US Open Attendance Hits Record High, but Etiquette Nightmare Ensues NEW YORK - The US Open has reached a record attendance of over 700,000 spectators this year, surpassing the numbers seen at Coachella music festival. However, the influx of fans has also led to an etiquette nightmare, with many tennis enthusiasts complaining about the noise level and disruption caused by the large crowds. According to Alex Abad-Santos, a senior correspondent for Vox, "The hum is constant, like a never-ending cicada chorus. It's a problem for tennis fans because tennis is meant to be a beautifully acoustic experience." The noise level has been so high that it has muffled the sound of the ball coming off a player's strings and made it difficult for spectators to hear line calls. The issue is not unique to this year's tournament, as Abad-Santos notes. "It's become an etiquette nightmare, and it's not just the US Open. Other grand slams have struggled with similar issues." The problem is exacerbated by the fact that many fans are willing to spend hundreds of dollars to attend the tournament. The noise level has been a concern for players as well. "I love playing in front of big crowds, but it can be tough when you can't hear the ball coming off your strings," said Novak Djokovic, a three-time US Open champion. "It's like trying to play with earplugs on." The US Open has taken steps to address the issue, including implementing noise-reducing measures and increasing security presence in the stands. However, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will be enough to alleviate the problem. In addition to the noise level, some fans have also complained about the lack of etiquette among spectators. "It's like a free-for-all out there," said one fan. "People are pushing and shoving, and it's getting out of hand." The US Open has become an increasingly popular event in recent years, with many fans attending from around the world. However, the large crowds have also brought new challenges for organizers and players alike. As the tournament continues, it will be interesting to see how the issue is addressed and whether the noise level can be brought under control. In the meantime, tennis enthusiasts will have to endure the cacophony of sound that has become a hallmark of the US Open. Background: The US Open is one of the four major tennis tournaments in the world, along with the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon. It is held annually at Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, New York, and attracts some of the biggest names in tennis. The tournament has a long history, dating back to 1881 when it was first held in Newport, Rhode Island. Over the years, it has been moved several times before settling on its current location in Queens. In recent years, the US Open has become one of the most popular sporting events in the world, with over 700,000 spectators attending each year. The tournament is known for its electric atmosphere and high-quality tennis, but also for its etiquette issues. Perspectives: While some fans have complained about the noise level and lack of etiquette among spectators, others have defended the US Open's crowds. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience," said one fan. "You can't get too caught up in the details when you're watching tennis at the US Open." As for players, many have expressed their love for playing in front of big crowds. "The energy is electric," said Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion. "It's what makes the US Open so special." Next Developments: The US Open will continue to run until September 8th, with the men's and women's singles finals scheduled for the last day of the tournament. As the event comes to a close, it remains to be seen whether the noise level can be brought under control and whether the etiquette issues can be addressed. In the meantime, tennis enthusiasts will have to endure the cacophony of sound that has become a hallmark of the US Open. *Reporting by Vox.*