Love-Love the U.S. Open? Here’s Where to Play Tennis in Lower Manhattan

With the Olympics now a sweet, French memory, it’s time to turn our attention to the next extended international athletic competition: the U.S. Open, which kicks off on August 26. 

The Grand Slam tennis event will run through September 8 and features stars Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff trying to defend their titles at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens. If watching all that world-class tennis inspires you to pick up a racket yourself, we’re here to help. Finding a court to play tennis can be a competitive sport on its own, but Lower Manhattan is full of spots that’ll help you get net positive results. Here’s where to go to hit some balls: 

Court 16

Court 16 bills itself as the only facility with permanent indoor courts in Lower Manhattan, which means you’ll be protected from our fickle late-summer weather. The space includes USTA sanctioned 44-foot long tennis courts, along with integrated ball-machine training and private instruction options. And if tennis is a bit too much for you, they’ve got pickleball courts as well. (28 Liberty St.)ˆ

The Rooftop at Pier 17

Pier 17’s celebrated rooftop venue will become a tennis court for the U.S. Open, and to celebrate, it’s hosting a big party. You can watch the matches on the big screen and show off your racket skills by trying to hit a tennis target for a chance to win free tickets to the finals. Chase Sapphire Reserve card holders also get the chance to book a 45-minute clinic with tennis legend Andy Roddick, as well as private court time. 

Outside of the promotions and scheduled events listed here, the court will be open to the public for free play and practice on a first-come, first-served basis. They’ll lend you rackets and balls, too. (89 South St.)

Brookfield Place Open

From August 20 through 29, Brookfield Place is transforming its Waterfront Plaza into a center court for its ninth annual Brookfield Place Open. The event is a partnership with the Tennis Channel, and will offer a bunch of tennis programming and events, plus open court play and clinics for both adults and kids. Balls will be provided, but BYO racket if you can; there will only be a few available to borrow. (230 Vesey St.)

photo: iStock