The U.S. Open will officially expand to 15 days in 2025, marking a historic shift to a Sunday start for the first time in the Open era that began in 1968. The U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) confirmed the change on Wednesday, following emails sent to ticket subscribers announcing the new tournament dates from August 24 to September 7. This move aligns the U.S. Open with the Australian Open and French Open, both of which had previously extended their schedules to 15 days.

A Change for Players and Fans

Under the new format, the first round of matches will now be spread over three days—Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday—providing fans with an extra day of main-draw action. However, the rest of the singles tournament schedule will remain unchanged. Before this expansion, the U.S. Open had shortened its first-round schedule to two days in 2015 after previously utilizing a three-day opening round.

This adjustment leaves Wimbledon as the only Grand Slam still starting on a Monday and remaining 14 days long. However, even Wimbledon made changes in 2022 by adding play on its traditional middle Sunday, extending its duration to two full weeks.

Revenue and Visibility for Tennis

The shift to a Sunday start is expected to increase revenue from ticket sales while also enhancing media coverage and overall exposure for the tournament. The Australian Open, which made the switch in 2024, has already set attendance records with its 15-day format, showing that the additional day could benefit both fans and organizers.

The USTA reported record-breaking attendance in 2024, and with this extension, they are likely aiming to continue that trend. An extra day provides fans with more opportunities to attend while also offering television broadcasters extended coverage of marquee matchups.

Mixed Reactions from Players

While Sunday starts are now a familiar feature at Grand Slams, not all players have welcomed the change in the past. When the French Open first introduced a 15-day schedule in 2006, tennis stars like Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova were vocal about their concerns.

Sharapova, who played on the inaugural Sunday in 2006, criticized the decision, stating:
“I asked if I could play later. The answer was, ‘You’re playing Sunday, fourth match.’ It doesn’t make you feel great when you know that all they’re thinking about is selling tickets and making money.”

Despite some skepticism, most top players have now adjusted to Sunday starts, and with increased fan engagement and revenue potential, the USTA’s decision could further boost the popularity of the U.S. Open.

Looking Ahead to 2025

With its new 15-day format, the U.S. Open is set to offer a fresh experience for players and fans alike. As the final Grand Slam of the year, it will now provide an extra day of elite tennis action, potentially breaking new attendance and viewership records.

As the sport continues to evolve, this change reflects tennis’ broader push for accessibility, commercial growth, and maximizing fan engagement on the biggest stages.