US Open 2021 COVID Rules: Are Vaccines, Masks Required? What To Expect For Tennis Tournament

One year after the U.S. Open was played entirely without spectators, the tennis tournament is set to welcome fans back. The year’s Grand Slam event is expected to feature full crowds, though there will be some COVID-19 restrictions.

The 2021 U.S. Open — scheduled to start on Aug. 30 at Flushing Meadows in Queens, New York — announced on June 17 that the tournament would return to full capacity. That is no longer fully the case since fans have now been banned from the qualifying rounds amid rising coronavirus cases across the country.

“This was a particularly tough decision for the USTA to make, given the immense popularity of US Open Qualifying among fans, but after consulting with local health authorities and the US Open medical team, it was determined that it was the right decision to ensure the health and safety of all,” the United States Tennis Association said in a statement.

For the tournament, there have been no announced changes in terms of capacity. No proof of vaccination, proof of a negative COVID-19 test or face masks are required to watch matches.

Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium and their concourses have no restrictions since they are considered outdoors.

Fans will need face masks while indoors on the grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. That includes shops, certain restaurants, restrooms and U.S. Open-operated indoor hospitality areas.

In accordance with New York City law, indoor restaurants will require proof of vaccination. The city’s vaccine mandate went into effect on Aug. 17, barring unvaccinated adults from entertainment venues, gyms, and indoor dining establishments.

Nearly 740,000 people attended the 2019 U.S. Open when the event last hosted fans.