Sharing Key Insights Into a Reporting Project

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 10, 2026

The U.S. Open tennis tournament is estimated to generate about $1.2 billion annually for New York City's economy, though experts and local stakeholders debate the accuracy of this figure. This analysis highlights the complexities of measuring economic impact and the tournament's significant role in supporting the city's financial and community interests.

The U.S. Open tennis tournament generates significant economic activity for New York City, with estimates placing its annual impact at around $1.2 billion. This figure, widely cited by the United States Tennis Association, has drawn both interest and skepticism from economic experts and local stakeholders.

David Waldstein, a longtime sports reporter who has covered every U.S. Open since 2003, undertook an in-depth examination of the tournament’s economic footprint ahead of this year’s event. His inquiry aimed to assess the accuracy of the $1.2 billion estimate and to explore the broader implications for the city’s economy.

In the course of his research, Waldstein engaged with economists specializing in the financial effects of major sporting events. Among them were Andrew Zimbalist of Smith College, noted for his expertise in sports business economics, and Rachel Meltzer from Harvard University, who studies the impact of large-scale events on urban areas. These conversations shed light on the complexities involved in calculating economic benefits, including direct spending, indirect effects, and the distribution of wealth across communities.

Waldstein also spoke with Vijay Dandapani, president of the Hotel Association of New York City, who expressed doubts about the anticipated economic windfall of the upcoming World Cup in New York compared to the U.S. Open’s long-established financial influence. Dandapani’s perspective highlighted the challenges in forecasting the economic effects of major international events.

In addition, City Council member Shanel Thomas-Henry, representing the Queens district where the U.S. Open takes place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, provided insights into how the influx of revenue from the tournament is felt at the local level.

Waldstein’s reporting sought to translate complex economic analyses into accessible narratives, illustrating how the U.S. Open goes beyond just sports to play a significant role in New York City’s economy. The project also underscored the reporter’s broader approach to storytelling, emphasizing the value of tracking small details and revisiting them over time to develop richer, more nuanced articles.

By blending expert analysis, local perspectives, and a deep familiarity with the tournament, the reporting offers a comprehensive view of the U.S. Open’s economic significance amid the city’s diverse landscape.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.