Where Is the US Open Tennis Played? Venue Details

By Sarah Miller · October 6, 2040

The US Open tennis tournament is played at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, New York City. This has been the permanent home of the US Open since 1978.

Overview of the US Open Venue

The US Open is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments and is held annually in late August to early September. Since 1978, it has taken place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, New York City. The venue is managed by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and is named after legendary tennis champion Billie Jean King.

Key Features of the Tennis Center

Home to Arthur Ashe Stadium, the largest tennis-specific stadium in the world
Features state-of-the-art retractable roofs on both Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong Stadiums
Includes 22 outdoor courts and 12 indoor courts
Hosts men’s and women’s singles, doubles, mixed doubles, junior, and wheelchair events

History of the US Open Locations

Before settling in its current location, the US Open was hosted at various venues across the United States. It began in 1881 as the U.S. National Championship and was initially played on grass courts at the Newport Casino in Newport, Rhode Island.

Evolution of Tournament Sites

1881–1914: Newport Casino, Newport, Rhode Island (grass)
1915–1920: West Side Tennis Club, Forest Hills, New York (grass)
1921–1977: Continued at Forest Hills with transition to clay (1975) and hard courts (1978)
1978–present: USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Flushing Meadows, NY

Court Surfaces Through the Years

The surface of the US Open has evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in player performance, safety, and spectator experience.

Grass (1881–1974): Traditional lawn surface used in early years
Clay (1975–1977): Har-Tru green clay used for three years at Forest Hills
Hard Court (1978–present): DecoTurf surface introduced at Flushing Meadows; currently Laykold acrylic surface

Arthur Ashe Stadium and Key Facilities

Arthur Ashe Stadium, opened in 1997, is the centerpiece of the complex, with a seating capacity of 23,771. It was named in honor of Arthur Ashe, the first winner of the US Open in 1968 during the Open Era and a pioneer for social justice in sports.

Stadium Highlights

First retractable roof installed in 2016, completed in 2017
Louis Armstrong Stadium, second-largest, rebuilt in 2018 with a new roof
Grandstand, the third-largest arena, also features a retractable roof
Venue includes fan zones, food markets, and interactive exhibits

Year	Location	Surface	Stadium	Capacity
1975	Forest Hills, NY	Har-Tru Clay	West Side Tennis Club	14,000
1980	Flushing Meadows, NY	DecoTurf (Hard)	USTA National Tennis Center	11,000 (Center Court)
1997	Flushing Meadows, NY	DecoTurf (Hard)	Arthur Ashe Stadium	22,547
2024	Flushing Meadows, NY	Laykold (Hard)	USTA Billie Jean King NTTC	23,771

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows a clear trend toward larger capacities and modernized infrastructure, especially after the opening of Arthur Ashe Stadium. The shift from DecoTurf to Laykold in 2020 improved consistency and player traction while maintaining the medium-fast pace characteristic of the US Open. These upgrades reflect the tournament's growth into a global sporting and entertainment event.

Why Flushing Meadows Was Chosen

In the late 1970s, the USTA sought a larger, more accessible venue to accommodate growing crowds and television demands. The West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills had limited expansion potential. Flushing Meadows offered ample space within a major public transit corridor in New York City.

Proximity to LaGuardia Airport and JFK International Airport
Direct access via NYC Subway (7 train to Mets-Willets Point station)
Integration with Citi Field (home of the New York Mets)
Ability to host large-scale fan experiences and corporate sponsorships

Frequently Asked Questions About the US Open Location

Where exactly is the US Open tennis tournament held?

The US Open is held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, New York City, NY 11368.

Has the US Open always been in New York?

No, the US Open was originally held in Newport, Rhode Island (1881–1914). It moved to Forest Hills, New York in 1915 and then to its current location in Flushing Meadows in 1978.

What type of court surface is used at the US Open?

The US Open uses a hard court surface. Since 1978, it has used DecoTurf, and since 2020, it has used Laykold, both of which provide a medium-fast playing speed.

Can fans visit the US Open venue outside of the tournament?

Yes, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center operates year-round as a public tennis facility. It offers lessons, leagues, and programs. Tours are available during non-tournament periods.

How do I get to the US Open by public transportation?

The best way is via the NYC Subway 7 train to the Mets-Willets Point station. It’s a 5-minute walk from the station to the tennis center. Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) also offers special service during the tournament.