Fans arrived yesterday from around the world, anxious and excited, with hard-fought U.S. Open tickets in hand. Journeys via plane, train and automobile were taken by all to get to the mecca of tennis, the U.S. Open.
Unfortunately, for many fans (myself included), ridiculously long security lines were encountered at the entrance, lasting in upwards of two hours. Clearly not the best way to put people in the mindset to start purchasing U.S. Open souvenirs. The culprit of these long lines, was apparently USTA’s incomprehensible rule prohibiting fans from bringing backpacks into the facility, larger than ones fit for a Barbie doll. Is there any logic to this backpack policy? I just don’t get it. You’re allowed to bring a handbag, but not a backpack? Why do they care HOW you carry your necessities? It’s got to be the money. They want you purchasing their food, their drinks, and perhaps an official U.S. Open BACKPACK once inside.
When you attend an event like the U.S. Open that lasts hours, you need your stuff, and you need it to be easy to carry around with you. None of the other majors, the French Open, Wimbledon or the Australian Open, seem to mind if you want to arrive with a backpack. I don’t see people abusing that privilege there and how this can be seen as a terror threat?
What do you think about the Backpack Policy at the U.S. Open? I’d be curious to know. You can share your thoughts on our Facebook Fan Page at facebook.com/championshiptennis.
