As the 145th US Open electrifies fans at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens (August 18–September 7, 2025), its impact stretches far beyond the courts. With Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, and Venus Williams making headlines, the tournament is both a sporting spectacle and an economic lifeline for New York City, pumping more than $1.2 billion into the local economy in just three weeks.
A Billion-Dollar Boost in Three Weeks
The US Open outpaces even the Yankees and Mets combined in seasonal economic impact. Each year, it delivers:
$1.2 billion in short-term spending across hospitality, retail, tourism, and entertainment.
6,500 seasonal jobs ranging from event operations to hospitality and retail.
A global tourism surge as fans from around the world extend their stays to explore NYC.
From the luxury suites of Arthur Ashe Stadium to the bustling bodegas of Queens, the money flows everywhere.
The Local Ripple Effect
While the top-line numbers are eye-catching, the true story lies in the neighborhoods.
1. Hospitality & Restaurants
Hotels in Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn hit near 100% occupancy at premium rates.
Local eateries in Flushing Meadows, Corona, and Forest Hills see double or triple normal revenue.
Fine-dining establishments in Manhattan benefit from corporate hospitality dinners tied to sponsorships.
2. Transportation & Ride Services
Subway, bus, and LIRR ridership spikes as fans travel to Queens.
Taxi and rideshare demand rises, especially between Manhattan hotels and the stadium.
JFK and LaGuardia see increased traffic from international arrivals.
3. Retail & Shopping
Tournament-goers shop heavily in Midtown and SoHo, fueling NYC’s luxury retail recovery.
US Open merchandise—from branded gear to exclusive apparel—sells out quickly.
4. Queens’ Small Businesses
Family-owned cafés, bodegas, and diners experience a holiday-season level rush.
Street vendors profit from overflow crowds with food, drinks, and memorabilia.
Local service providers secure temporary contracts supporting the event.
5. Entertainment & Tourism
The Open acts as a gateway event for Broadway shows, museums, and nightlife.
Many visitors extend trips, spreading economic benefits across all five boroughs.
As one Queens restaurant owner put it: “The Open isn’t just about tennis—it’s survival for small businesses like ours.”
Beyond the Matches: Cocktails & Construction
The iconic Honey Deuce cocktail is expected to bring in $13 million in sales this year—more than the prize money for doubles champions combined.
The USTA is investing $800 million privately into Arthur Ashe Stadium upgrades, including luxury suites, new hospitality clubs, and a state-of-the-art $250 million Player Performance Center.
Revenues also help fund grassroots tennis programs, expanding opportunities for youth across New York
Why the US Open Matters to NYC’s Economy
Impact Area Highlights
Economic Value Over $1.2 billion in short-term impact.
Job Creation About 6,500 seasonal roles.
Hospitality & Tourism Full hotels, packed restaurants, bustling transit.
Global Tourism Visitors boost cultural institutions and sightseeing.
Signature Products Honey Deuce cocktail: $13 million in sales.
Infrastructure Investment $800 million privately funded in upgrades.
Sporting Legacy Grassroots tennis programs expand access citywide.
Final Serve: Prosperity Across the Boroughs
The 2025 US Open proves that sports can be more than entertainment—they can be an economic engine. From Broadway theaters to corner bodegas, from international tourism to grassroots tennis, the Open’s ripple effect touches every layer of New York City.
It’s not just about who lifts the trophy—it’s about how the city rises with it.
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