Due to health and safety reasons amid the COVID-19 pandemic, spectators will not be allowed to attend qualifying rounds at this month’s U.S. Open in New York, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) has announced.
The qualifying rounds are slated to be staged at Flushing Meadows, seven days ahead of the main competition, which will begin on August 30.
“This was a particularly tough decision for the USTA to make, given the immense popularity of U.S. Open Qualifying among fans,” the USTA said in a statement.
“But after consulting with local health authorities and the U.S. Open medical team, it was determined that it was the right decision to ensure the health and safety of all,” it added.
The USTA said that over 2,500 people, including athletes, their team and other personnel, are expected to be on site during the qualifying rounds.