By David Ramirez
25 Aug 2024, 08:43 AM EDT
Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Saturday set a record attendance of 47,875, breaking last year’s record of 40,868.
The annual celebration honors the life and legacy of tennis champion and cultural icon Arthur Ashe, the only African-American to win the singles title at Wimbledon, the U.S. Open and the Australian Open.
The day offered fans of all ages a variety of entertainment and family-friendly activities, all with the aim of getting children excited about getting involved with tennis.
The audience was able to see the best players in the main draw doing their training and also enjoyed musical performances and appearances by players on the Fountain Plaza stage.
The biggest joy for those in attendance was getting up close and personal with this year’s US Open stars Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Zheng Qinwen, Lorenzo Musetti and Andre Agassi, who joined YouTube stars Dude Perfect at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The composite sports comedy group teamed up with tennis stars to deliver a high-energy, hilarious show that got the atmosphere going and sent everyone home happy. Also performing were Alex Sampson, Bella Dose, WanMor, Wé Ani and MusicClubKids.
On Courts 5 and 6, fans witnessed the sport welcome players of all ages and abilities.
The All Abilities Court hosted a four-hour event to support wheelchair and adaptive tennis players.
Fan Week ends this Sunday. The main draw begins this Monday and runs through Sunday, September 8.