USTA takes “tough decision” to ban spectators from 2021 US Open qualifiers over concerns over COVID-19

More than two months had passed since USTA he announced would accept 100 percent capacity for the full 2021 U.S. Open, which reversed its stance on Thursday. USTA has announced that it will ban fans from the qualifying rounds to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The main draw for the US Open is still open to the public.

“The decision was particularly tough for USTA, given the huge popularity of the US Open qualifiers among fans, but after consultation with local health authorities and the US Open medical team, the decision was determined to be appropriate for the health and safety of all,” USTA said. statement.

According to USTA, more than 2,500 athletes and those around them will need access to the National Tennis Center in Queens, New York, New York from August 24-27. That’s the largest number of people who will be at the Open, that’s the reason USTA is pushing away fans.

The US Open banned viewers in 2020 for COVID-19 protocols. In that tournament, Naomi Osaka and Dominic Thiem won the women’s individual and men’s individual events, respectively. Mate Pavić and Bruno Saures won it all in the men’s doubles, and Laura Siegemund and Vera Zvonareva did the same in the women’s doubles.

Qualifying for the US Open will take place August 24-27 on ESPN News. The main draw, from August 30 to September 12, will be available on ESPN +.