The U.S. Open’s first round features late-night finishes that leave stands sparsely filled, prompting pushback from players and criticism of scheduling. Multiple reports describe matches ending after 2 a.m. local time, with fans unable to stay and many seats remaining empty when play finishes.
Alexander Zverev is among the players cited as reacting to the situation. After completing his first-round match in the early morning hours, he is reported to have faced a stadium environment with widespread empty seats and to have offered comments that reflect frustration with the impact of the late scheduling on attendance and atmosphere. The reporting also links the issue to broader concerns about how match times affect fan participation.
While outlets focus on the same core problem—very late conclusion times and lack of spectators—coverage varies in emphasis. Some accounts highlight the visible emptiness in the stands after matches end, while others focus more on players’ remarks and what they suggest about the tournament’s scheduling decisions and the experience for both athletes and spectators.
