It has been a long two years since we last came together here at the US Open. So much has changed in that time; so many of our friends and families have been affected by a relentless global pandemic that separated us from each other and from the things we love. It has been tough, to say the least. Very tough. And I know that all of us have been looking forward to a time when some sliver of normalcy might return to our lives.
That is what we hope to accomplish at the 2021 US Open.
This place—our house—was built to welcome the world, to be a beacon of hope, and to showcase the unparalleled drama of our remarkable sport. Last year, without fans in attendance during the US Open, this house felt particularly empty. Because for all of the ingredients that go into creating the magnificent US Open experience, none are more important than our fans. It is your passion that powers this place; your energy that amps up its electricity. Your collective heart provides its singular soul.
We are thrilled to welcome every one of you back to our house for this year’s US Open. This one promises to be special. More than a celebration of tennis, this will be a celebration of our resiliency, our toughness and our compassion as a community. In coming together, we will not only cheer the best in our sport, but salute those everyday heroes and sheroes who have raised their own games to help us make it through these trying times. This one is not only about those who raise trophies, but also about those who help to raise lives.
It has long been established that the lines of a tennis court can connect people in a variety of wonderful ways. And as we come together, we do so needing that connection, maybe more than ever before. We’re not out of the woods yet, we all know that. But we are getting there, and hearing your cheers and applause cascading through every corner of this house will be a marvelous sign that better days are on their way.
For these two weeks, we will be together. That is an important first step.
I’m thrilled to welcome you back. Mi Casa, Su Casa.
