Diverse tennis crowds at US open elicit enthusiastic response from players

In a captivating display of diverse and passionate tennis fandom, players at this year’s US Open have found themselves amidst an international symphony of support, transcending borders and igniting the atmosphere on the courts.

American player Taylor Townsend, in particular, experienced this multicultural wave of enthusiasm during her second match against Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia. While Townsend enjoyed robust home support, the fervor for her Brazilian opponent was notably pronounced.

The energy in the stadium was electric, reminiscent of a professional soccer match, with chants echoing back and forth between the two sides. Townsend, ranked 132nd in the world, reveled in the vibrant crowd, describing it as one of her most enjoyable matches due to the infectious energy she drew from the diverse audience.

This multicultural fervor is a characteristic feature of the US Open, held annually at New York’s Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The tournament transforms into a microcosm of the city’s diverse population, with Queens, the hosting borough, showcasing its rich multicultural tapestry. According to census data, nearly half of Queens’ residents were born in foreign countries, reflecting a broad spectrum of ethnic backgrounds. This diversity is unmistakably mirrored in the audience, as observed during the Townsend-Haddad Maia match, where Brazilian supporters turned out in force, bedecked in their national colors and chanting in unison.

The international flavor extends beyond Brazilians, as fans from various backgrounds come to support their favorite players. Vinicius Palermo Thome, while watching Brazilian doubles player Luisa Stefani, noted the presence of Portuguese speakers among the audience. Joao Pedro, another Brazilian fan, expressed his excitement about traveling with his family to New York to support their fellow countrymen, echoing the sentiments of many fans who find camaraderie in supporting their own.

The US Open’s multicultural celebration starkly contrasts with the more homogeneous crowds often seen at Wimbledon, the preceding Grand Slam event in London. Tennis broadcaster Catherine Whitaker acknowledged this disparity, attributing it in part to tennis’s historical class association and the UK’s entrenched class system. She lamented that some segments of British society may feel alienated from the sport.

Indian player Rohan Bopanna, affectionately known as “Bops,” affirmed the significant role of Indian fans in New York, attributing their support as a driving force behind his and partner Matt Ebden’s journey to the Men’s Doubles Final. Ebden shared his awe at the enthusiastic crowd reception, particularly during their quarterfinal match against an American pair.

The increased attention and pressure that come with passionate support are not without challenges. For instance, Beatriz Haddad Maia, despite enjoying substantial backing against Taylor Townsend, faced defeat. Similarly, Tunisian player Ons Jabeur, a pioneer in the sport representing the Arab and Muslim world, exited the tournament early. Nevertheless, Jabeur embraced the pressure, viewing it as an opportunity to make her fans proud and to continually improve her game. She highlighted the overwhelmingly positive response she receives from fans worldwide, emphasizing the encouragement she receives from the Arab and African communities.

In conclusion, the US Open stands as a testament to the power of diverse and passionate tennis crowds, uniting players and fans from all corners of the globe in a celebration of sportsmanship and cultural diversity.