US Open Tennis '18 / by Sagar Mukala

Arthur Ashe stadium, east entrance

Arthur Ashe stadium, east entrance

The US Open is the biggest festival of tennis that happens in the US. We were lucky enough to get a chance to watch the round of 16 games this labor day. Located in Flushing, New York, the Arthur Ashe stadium boasts some of the best state of the art tennis facilities in the country. The luxury suites offer a perfect spot to watch the game, considering the crazy hot and humid conditions in New York. The suite offers air-conditioning as well as food and drinks, along with a great vantage point to watch the game.

Luxury suites at the Arthur Ashe stadium

Luxury suites at the Arthur Ashe stadium

The round of 16 game between Nadal and Basilashvili was very entertaining. Basilashvili, although an underdog, provided great competition. In the end, the greatness of Nadal prevailed and he took the game in 4 sets.

Nadal vs Basilashvili, round of 16 at the US Open

Nadal vs Basilashvili, round of 16 at the US Open

I packed my zoom lens and put it to action without fail.

Rafael Nadal in action

Rafael Nadal in action

Forehand

Forehand

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Game script

Nadal's game play was solid, he was defensively strong, his forehand and backhand are very strong as well. Basilashvili had a never say die attitude and came back to take the third set, after Nadal winning the first two sets comfortably. Nadal was frustrated when he lost the third set as the heat was taking a toll on him. He wanted to close out the game in three sets and rest for the next round. Both guys took a ten minute shower break after the third set and came back fresh to compete in the fourth.

After the game, we stepped out of the Arthur Ashe stadium, to grab lunch. There were plenty of good food options available. On our way back to the next game, we spotted Nadal being interviewed by television.

Nadal at the post match interview

Nadal at the post match interview

The next game at the Arthur Ashe was pretty exciting too. It was the women's round of 16 game which took place between Serena Williams and Kanepi (the lady who defeated number 1 seed Simona in the first round). It was a thrilling game that Serena won in three sets.

Serena Williams in action at the round of 16, US Open

Serena Williams in action at the round of 16, US Open

Overall, watching the US Open live was an incredible experience. If you're a tennis fan, I highly recommend checking out the US Open if you get an opportunity.

Till next time,
Sagar