2009 US Open Wrap-Up
The 2009 US Open brought everything a world class sporting event should bring; drama, excitement, tears, and a surprise ending. Here is a look back at some of the highlights of the tournament.
The Good
The feel-good stories of the women’s event. From the comeback of a champion to win the event to the birth of a new American hero. Kim Clijsters, who retired for 2 years to have a child, came back to win the event with style over a promising young player just breaking into the top-10.
American teenage sensation Melanie Oudin makes it all the way to the quarterfinals. She kept playing so much longer than expected that she did not even have hotel reservations for the 2nd week.
The quality of the men’s tennis. The men’s draw went almost exactly as predicted right up to the quarters. For the entire time, the men were putting on a display of great matches. The final was a rare 5 set match, culminating in the crowning of a new Champion in a shocking upset.
The Bad
Things were not all roses at the Open, certainly there were areas that could be improved:
For the 1st time ever, no American man went as far as the quarterfinals. The last American man standing was John Isner, who went out in the 4th round.
The crowd control left a lot to be desired. With record crowds, the organizers have got to find a way to get people in and out of the stadiums better. Time after time the play was delayed because people were still trying to get to their seats after a changeover. Perhaps the officials should consider using more entrances rather than attempting a one-way traffic pattern (which only applies to those going in, not those going out.)
From television, it looked like stadiums were empty. In reality, the court-side reserved seats were the ones not filled. Most of the upper levels were packed for much of the tournament. Tennis needs to reconsider it’s pricing structure so the people who actually go to the stadium on days other than the finals can fill the good seats.
The Ugly
No debate on this one, the tirade from Serena Williams is about as ugly as things can get. Many think the $10,000+ fine was not enough and are calling for a suspension. There have been many players who have argued with an umpire, even Roger Federer lost his temper. But seldom, if ever, has there been an outburst like Serena gave the linejudge. Threatening a person half your size is never acceptable, and for a role-model to do it is just plain irresponsible. One of the best matches of the tournament will only be remembered for the embarrassing way in which it ended.
