Bang For Zero Bucks: My U.S. Open Qualifying Experience

I love going to the final round of U.S. Open qualifying for several reasons: a) it's FREE b) the stakes are high c) and it's FREE. Here are a few things I learned on Friday:

Qualifying rounds are an inexpensive alternative to main draw play. While the stars of the tennis world are practicing or promoting various brands, the up-and-comers and the journeymen provide all of the drama and excitement all for just the cost of a roundtrip Metrocard. Though the 7 train is the slowest method of transportation other than walking, five dollars to see as much tennis as I did is an amazing deal.  I even packed my lunch, snack, and brought a plastic water bottle to refill throughout the day so I wouldn't have to spend on concessions!

It's easy to talk to your neighbors. Tennis fanaticism can be a closely knitted community, so why not open it up a bit and discuss Taylor Townsend's many weapons with the person next to you? And hey, you never know if they are willing to buy you a beer for holding their seat while they run to the bathroom. (P.S. that Heineken hit the spot.)

The tension can be cut with a knife. The atmosphere on court is one of anticipation and anxiety. Watching a teenager trying to prove their talent face a struggling veteran fighting to keep her head above water can create an almost unpleasant atmosphere. Still, you appreciate how difficult it is to remain competitive in this sport without a burning desire for the game of tennis.

The practice sessions lighten the mood. There were huge crowds for the Berdych/Isner practice match on Armstrong. I ended up taking an picture of Tomas Berdych and posting it on Instagram. Of course he went and liked it. After the big servers were done, I made my way across the hall to Grandstand where I witnessed a highly entertaining practice between Fabio Fognini and Tommy Haas. Fabio was talking to (and laughing at) himself in heavy Italian. Tommy was yelling in German. There were thrown racquets. There were unnecessary dropshots. The crowd was hysterical. Practice sessions are a great respite from the desperate mood of this day.

You can take great pictures. With the grounds being on the lighter side, you can really photographically capture the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in the best way possible.

"From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life." -Arthur Ashe

Happy U.S. Open everyone!