The 2024 US Open tennis tournament kicked off in the Queens borough on August 26, marking the beginning of a two-week-long event. This year, it is expected to attract over one million spectators to watch the matches. The New York City Police Department has implemented a series of enhanced security measures, stating that there are currently no specific or credible threats and that any protests or disruptions to the event will not be tolerated. Attendees are advised to use public transportation as much as possible and to refrain from bringing prohibited items into the venue.
Yearly held at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, last year’s tournament saw over 950,000 fans from around the world, with this year’s attendance projected to reach a record-breaking one million.
At a press conference held on the morning of August 26, NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban announced that additional units have been deployed to ensure the safety of the games. Visible and discreet security measures have been put in place, including increased patrols around the stadium, the deployment of heavy weapon teams, counterterrorism units, police dogs, aerial drones for surveillance, as well as the installation of barriers, checkpoints, explosive and radiation detectors, among others.
Deputy Commissioner of Counterterrorism, Rebecca Weiner, stated that while there are currently no specific or credible threats, they are closely monitoring ongoing protests in the city since the outbreak of the conflict involving Hamas in Israel. The police will not tolerate any protests or illegal activities that disrupt or jeopardize the matches. Weiner emphasized that the flying of drones is prohibited in the vicinity of the stadium.
Both the police and the event organizer, the United States Tennis Association (USTA), urge spectators to use public transport, with increased services on the 7 train to Willets Point and the Long Island Rail Road during the tournament. For those driving, be aware that surrounding streets may be restricted or closed.
To save time, drivers are recommended to take the Grand Central Parkway exit 9E, Whitestone Expressway exit 13D, or Long Island Expressway exit 22B towards College Point Blvd, guided by police to parking lots. Alternatively, parking is available at the Skyview shopping center in Flushing, a short walk from the stadium.
All visitors will undergo security screening before entering the venue. Each person is allowed to bring only one bag, not exceeding 12 inches in width, 12 inches in height, and 16 inches in length (except for disabled or medical equipment). Only single-compartment drawstring bags are permitted, and other types of backpacks are not allowed.
Prohibited items include hard-sided coolers, sealed packages, glass bottles or cans, aerosol cans or horns, alcoholic beverages or drugs, cameras or recording devices with tripods, computers or laptops, weapons, pets, flags, banners or signs, advertisements or promotional materials, laser pointers, tennis rackets, drones, selfie sticks, rollerblades, skateboards, bicycles, masks not for medical use, fireworks, Frisbees, balloons, beach balls, confetti or glitter, or any other items deemed dangerous or inappropriate by the organizers.
For more information, visit the official US Open website: https://tinyurl.com/mr2rvd7x