U.S. Open qualifying rounds closed to spectators due to COVID-19

While the main draw for the U.S. Open is scheduled to begin Aug. 30 in New York, the event's qualifying rounds are held the week before and are typically open to the public. 

However, the United States Tennis Association confirmed Thursday that spectators will not be allowed to attend qualifying matches because of fears and issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"The decision regarding the qualifying tournament, though heartbreaking, will have no impact on fan access to the main draw," USTA spokesperson Chris Widmaier said in a statement shared by The Associated Press (h/t ESPN). 

Fans were prohibited from attending the entire U.S. Open last year because of the health crisis. As of Thursday, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is expected to allow 100% capacity for all main draw sessions through the tournament's conclusion on Sept. 12. 

Also on Thursday, New Orleans Saints fans learned they will have to show proof of either a COVID-19 vaccination or a recent negative coronavirus test to attend games this season. One wonders if the U.S. Open will embrace a similar policy because of virus-related guidelines in New York City.