For style, sophistication, splendour and supreme sporting sights, you’d be hard pushed to find a better place to experience this than at one of tennis’s four Grand Slam events.
Taking place each year in cities where glamour and luxury are certainly not in short supply, namely London, Paris, New York and Melbourne, the biggest events in the tennis calendar attracts celebrities, big-name sports personalities and tennis enthusiasts alike to watch the finest players in the sport work their magic on court.
With Wimbledon coming to a close this weekend, you might be wishing you’d secured a ticket, but fear not, as there’s still one Grand Slam left in the calendar – the US Open in New York, which starts on August 28 and wraps up on September 10.
Played at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York, the US Open will allow spectators to enjoy hard-fought matches from the greats and up-and-coming stars of the game. On top of that, the location allows those visiting for the event an incredible playground to take in some of the world’s most amazing sights and experiences in the heart of the city.
If you’re looking to make the journey to New York for the US Open this year, then read on for all the ways you can enjoy the action on court and beyond like a true VIP.
The big event
Enjoying the chance to watch tennis’ biggest names in action up close and personal is a treat in itself – Novak Djokovic, the 11/10 favourite to win the US Open in the tennis odds, is already considered the greatest male player of all time after racking up 23 major wins. He could make it 24 in NYC (or 25 if he wins Wimbledon this weekend), although the likes of Daniil Medvedev (7/2), Nick Kyrgios (12/1) and Matteo Berrettini (17/1) will be hoping to stop him from doing exactly that.
The tennis predictions for the women’s singles are much more open, as ever, with Aryna Sabalenka (5/1), Ons Jabeur (9/1) and Carolina Garcia (10/1) amongst those expected to fight it out for the trophy.
Tickets are on sale and you can choose from day session tickets with reserved seats and first-come first-served access to certain general admission areas or opt for the evening session matches and watch the magic unfold under the lights. You could alternatively opt for multi session tickets and also upgrade your experience with one of the hospitality packages available. From excellent seats to exclusive access, air-conditioned lounges and bars, food and drink options and even chauffeur services, your experience is sure to be elevated with a hospitality package.
New York City by day
Once you’ve had your taste of the action on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows, why not take to the skies? There are a number of fantastic helicopter tours of New York, which fly low enough for you to enjoy unparalleled views of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks from above; the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building and Central Park being just three destinations on the itinerary.
If you prefer to get your kicks on terra firma, NYC is a flag-bearer for some of the best shopping you will find anywhere in the world. Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue are favourite haunts for those seeking out designer labels such as Tiffany, Louis Vuitton and Lanvin, while for the ultimate experience head to Bergdorf Goodman – this is arguably the most glamorous shopping centre on the planet, with Prada, Gucci, Dolce and Gabbana and Jimmy Choo, amongst others, all housed under its famous roof.
If you want to sit back and relax while taking in the sights a little closer to the ground, then a ride around Central Park via horse and carriage – complete with a glass of champagne – is a great way to while away some time. Meanwhile you’ll find some of the most amazing cultural hot spots across the city, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and taking in a Broadway show while you’re in the city is a must, but more on that below.
New York City by night
When your days of top tennis, celebrity-spotting and all the exciting experiences throughout the city wear you out, you’ll need somewhere suitably opulent to rest up and sample some of New York’s tastiest cuisine.
Luxury hotels don’t come much more sumptuous than The Mark, the Manhattan five-star hotel that is blessed with extraordinary suites, restaurants headed by Jean-Georges and a Frederic Fekkai approved salon.
The St. Regis is another eye-catching option as it combines exquisite suites with fine dining in its Astor Court restaurant, which delivers the finest seasonal ingredients in a setting that somehow combines Renaissance era décor with contemporary finishing touches.
If a good meal energises you, you might still have time to take in a show on Broadway, with a number of different VIP packages available. You can take a backstage tour of some of the most famous theatres around or arrange a meet-and-greet with the cast. Or you could simply enjoy the show from the comfort of your own private box, taking advantage of a waiter service to help refresh your palate during the half-time intermission.
To round off your evening, stop by one of New York’s most sophisticated nightspots. The Ophelia Lounge offers moreish cocktails with views across the city from its rooftop terrace, while Bemelmans – found at the Carlyle Hotel – is a sophisticated piano bar with a soundtrack that will soothe your senses.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re a tennis lover or travelling with someone who loves the sport, US Open fortnight each August-September is a fantastic time to enjoy a luxury trip to New York.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
