Key facts
- The U.S. Open has begun releasing face-value tickets on Ticketmaster.
- The United States Tennis Association stated it periodically releases tickets it holds.
- Grounds passes for the U.S. Open are priced over $360, with a face value of $65.
- Upper-deck seats in Arthur Ashe Stadium are priced at $326.
- Courtside seats can cost as much as $2,104.
- The USTA cites accessibility efforts like free access during qualifying tournaments and Fan Week as part of its mission.
The U.S. Open has begun releasing face-value tickets on Ticketmaster, a move that comes as many fans face soaring prices for the tennis tournament. The United States Tennis Association stated that it periodically releases tickets it holds for various reasons.
Fans looking for tickets to the U.S. Open are encountering significantly higher prices than face value. For the first day of action on Monday, Aug. 31, a grounds pass without a guaranteed seat is priced over $360, compared to its face value of $65. Upper-deck seats in Arthur Ashe Stadium are listed at $326, while lower-section seats in the same stadium are $518. More premium seats closer to the court can reach $2,104, and loge section seats are $1,236.07.
The USTA, a non-profit organization, aims to increase accessibility to tennis. Chief commercial officer Kirsten Corio highlighted efforts such as free access during qualifying tournaments, mixed doubles, and exhibition nights, noting that 240,000 people attended the U.S. Open's Fan Week last year.
The surge in ticket prices is attributed to several factors, including the tournament's growing popularity at the intersection of sports, celebrity, and culture, similar to major concerts. A robust resale market has also contributed. Furthermore, Arthur Ashe Stadium is undergoing an $800 million renovation to enhance premium hospitality, and top players are seeking a larger share of Grand Slam revenues through increased prize money, necessitating higher ticket prices to maintain profit margins.
Fans express frustration over being priced out of an event they are told is culturally significant. The National Consumers League CEO, Sally Greenberg, described the ticket-buying process as feeling like a "rigged game" with no face-value tickets available through traditional means, often leading consumers to pay exorbitant prices and fees on resale sites.