2013 Tennis US Open Tickets

Monday marks a week until the start of the U.S. Open, and for many the beginning of the end of the summer. By the time the finals wraps up on center court, it will be September 9th or–if the last three years of weather holds–September 10th.

In 2013, there is more money at stake than ever before, with the purse up 28% since last year, to a total of $33.6 million. Tennis purses are in fact up for all the majors in 2013, and it seems that we’re in the midst of a tennis major arms race. On the heels of the US Open’s increase, Wimbledon announced that they will increase prices 40% to a total purse of $34.4 million, or $800, 000 above the US Open. The Open, however, has not shown any signs of backing down, and have stated a purse target of $50 million in 2017. While the stakes are higher than even for players, it also means that prices at the box office are bound to rise.

Below is a chart of ticket prices on the secondary market over the last four years, by session:

If you’re looking to get to Flushing to enjoy the most civilized sporting event in America, you’ll pay an average of $336 for US Open tickets, which is the highest average price over the last four years. There are, however, ways to keep prices manageable. If you go after Labor Day when the field is down to the contenders, you’ll spend 88% more than before Labor Day. During the first week, prices are cheaper in the evening than the afternoon. However, once work schedules kick in, the night sessions are most expensive.

Many would in fact argue that the best way to enjoy the Open is to get a grounds pass for the first week, which can mean a front-row seat for some great battles on the outer courts. Most of these courts feel like an intimate backyard affair that only you and a few hundred others have discovered. It’s also where you’ll find up-and-comers battling to be discovered and get a piece of the $33.6 million. The cheapest ticket for this years U.S. Open is the first Tuesday afternoon, when it will cost $24 to see the action.