Tennis enthusiasts, along with Honey Deuce beverage enthusiasts, flock to the US Open on a free admission day, attracting rookie spectators

The U.S. Open, one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world, continues to break attendance records for the fourth consecutive year. This year's "Fan Week" drew nearly 240,000 visitors, an increase from 216,000 last year.

Debra Whitner, a project manager visiting from California, took advantage of the free day offered during the "Fan Week" to slow down and explore. She lined up to get a free pair of blue shoelaces printed with tiny crossed tennis rackets. Whitner felt the free day offered her the opportunity to walk through the U.S. Open experience and collect souvenirs.

Steve Peralta, a 46-year-old video technician from France, personalized a tennis ball with his initials and a U.S. Open logo, despite not being much of a tennis fan. Peralta expressed that he looked forward to remembering his experience at the U.S. Open in the future.

Visitors lined up to take pictures with a giant tennis ball and a racket or personalize regular-sized balls with prints of their choice. Vendors offered the Honey Deuce drink in plastic glasses for $21 on Thursday due to the lack of souvenir cups. The Honey Deuce cocktail, usually served in a souvenir cup, had run out of its signature containers by Thursday.

The Honey Deuce cocktail, made with vodka, lemonade, raspberry liqueur, and garnished with honeydew melon balls, has become a popular beverage at the U.S. Open. Its popularity led to a "treasure hunt" for the souvenir cups, especially on free days. Pamela Rueda, the manager of a small bar, reported selling 800 Honey Deuce cocktails on the busiest day.

Thursday's schedule included women's semi-final matches in the evening. The mixed doubles tournament was featured during the "Fan Week" this year. Fans are granted free access on Thursday as part of a tradition to welcome newcomers.

Paul Lucenara, a resident near the venue in Flushing Meadows, attended his first live tennis match during the U.S. Open. For Lucenara, watching tennis up close was an eye-opening experience. He expressed gratitude for being a part of the U.S. Open experience, despite not being a tennis fan.

The U.S. Open attracted visitors who were not just tennis fans but also wanted to experience the event and collect souvenirs. Steve Peralta felt grateful to be a part of the U.S. Open experience, despite not being a tennis fan. Debra Whitner felt the free day offered her the opportunity to walk through the U.S. Open experience and collect souvenirs.

As the U.S. Open continues, it is clear that the tournament is not just about tennis, but also about creating unforgettable experiences for its visitors.

Tennis enthusiasts, along with Honey Deuce beverage enthusiasts, flock to the US Open on a free admission day, attracting rookie spectators