US Open Grand Slam – History of the Tournament: From Forest Hills to Arthur Ashe Legacy
Table of Contents
The US Open Grand Slam history began in 1881 as the U.S. National Championship, attracting the best from across the country and sparking a rivalry that would define Grand Slam tennis. Initially held at prestigious venues like Newport and Philadelphia, the tournament found a permanent home in Forest Hills, Queens, by 1915. Its growth mirrored tennis itself—shifting courts between grass and clay and evolving alongside American culture.
Transformation at Forest Hills: A Century of Tradition
Forest Hills hosted some of the sport’s most dramatic chapters from 1915 to 1977. In the 1960s, matches were played on grass until complaints about uneven surfaces led to a transition to clay in 1975 . Despite its scenic setting, by the late 1970s, crowd size and spirit outgrew the site. That push for progress led to the development of the hard-court stadium in Flushing Meadows, marking the end of Forest Hills—and the dawn of a new era for the US Open .
The Open Era Begins
In 1968, Forest Hills hosted the inaugural Open Era U.S. Open, allowing professionals to compete alongside amateurs. That year, Arthur Ashe, an Army lieutenant and world-class amateur, made history by defeating Tom Okker to become the first U.S. Open champion of the modern era. Beyond trophies, Ashe symbolized broader social change—breaking racial barriers in sport and using his platform for civil rights and activism. His victory and spirit paved the way for tennis to flourish in the decades to follow.
Flushing Meadows and the Hard-Court Revolution
In 1978, the tournament moved to Flushing Meadows, occupying repurposed facilities from the 1964 World’s Fair. The switch to hard courts marked a fundamental change in play style, appealing to global athletes and audiences. The opening of Arthur Ashe Stadium in 1997, seating over 23,000 fans, further solidified the US Open’s status as a world-class event. It continues to be the site of tennis’s greatest night matches and Grand Slam drama.
Champions, Legends, and Milestones
- Arthur Ashe (1968): First Black male champion of a Grand Slam during a turbulent era.
- “Super Saturday” (1984): A day featuring marathon matches between legends like McEnroe, Connors, and Lendl—an electric moment in tennis history.
- Roger Federer (2008): Extended his dominance with a fifth consecutive US Open title, joining an elite group of champions.
- Modern Legacy: In 2019, the tournament drew 1 million fans, setting a new attendance record. Today, rising stars like Frances Tiafoe echo past pioneers, reaching major milestones and linking history to the present .
Arthur Ashe’s Lasting Influence
Arthur Ashe’s influence endures well beyond his Grand Slam win. Ashe continued to advocate for equal rights, AIDS awareness, and sportsmanship until his death in 1993. His legacy is immortalized in the naming of Arthur Ashe Stadium—both a fitting tribute and perpetual inspiration to new generations.
Building for the Future
In 2025, the USTA launched a transformative $800 million renovation at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. This includes expanded courtside seating, new suites, and upgraded amenities to enhance both player and fan experiences. Despite major updates, the soul and spirit of the Open—first shaped at Forest Hills and amplified by Ashe—remain at the heart of every match.
US Open 2025: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
The 2025 US Open is set to honor its storied lineage while acting as a springboard for what’s next. With hard-court battles, iconic nighttime sessions, and a global field of elite players, it promises to write the next chapter of tennis history on a stage rooted in tradition and shaped for today’s fans.
Don’t Just Watch—Witness History in 2025
Centre Court is calling once again. From Forest Hills beginnings to modern hard-court showdowns, the US Open continues to define tennis and reflect the spirit of its time. Be part of the journey—join the millions who return each year to see new champions emerge and legacies grow.
👉 Secure your spot at US Open 2025 today. Be there to witness the next iconic match.