Players and officials question U.S. Open’s surge of post-2 a.m. matches
The U.S. Open has seen a spate of matches finishing after 2 a.m., sparking criticism from players and calls for schedule reforms.
In its opening days, the U.S. Open set a new record with three matches ending after 2 a.m. and two more crossing the 1 a.m. threshold, raising alarms about the tournament’s late-night programming. Alexander Zverev wrapped up his first-round win in the early morning with only a brief press session, noting that everyone was exhausted. Jessica Pegula pointed out the strain on broadcasters and players alike, while Venus Williams lamented her 12:13 a.m. start on opening night.
Ben Shelton, after a 2:07 a.m. victory, said he expected to sleep at 5 a.m., and Aryna Sabalenka warned that midnight finishes disrupt recovery. The situation contrasts with Wimbledon’s 11 p.m. curfew and the French Open’s single-night match policy, prompting calls for the U.S. Open to reconsider its scheduling.
Why it matters
Late finishes risk player health and fan engagement, pressuring organizers to adjust tournament scheduling.
How this story developed
- Aug 31 Injury wave sidelines top tennis stars as US Open begins
- Sep 1 Coco Gauff arrives at the US Open having rebuilt her serve and forehand, entering the event with markedly better serving numbers.
- Sep 4 Coco Gauff is now set to headline Thursday's evening session at the US Open.
- Sep 5 Doubles competition starts and the Williams sisters could return Friday against Hao‑Ching Chan and Maya Joint.
- Sep 6 Alcaraz returned to competition at the US Open after missing four months with a wrist injury.
- Sep 6 Alexander Zverev is scheduled to play after Gauff’s match.
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