As the U.S. Open tennis tournament unfolds, singles in New York City are viewing the event not only as a chance to watch top athletes compete but also as a prime opportunity to find a romantic partner. The three-week championship, running through September 13, attracts attendees willing to spend between $23 and $739 for admission, with many hoping to connect with like-minded individuals.
Alyssa Rosello, a Manhattan resident and product manager, expressed her optimism about meeting someone at a match. "Sports are a great way to meet people, especially as a girl," she told The Post. Rosello, who played tennis from childhood through college, hopes to find a partner who shares her passion for the sport, ideally someone with whom she could travel to other major tournaments like Wimbledon or the French Open.
This approach to dating aligns with findings from a recent study by Feeld, a dating app catering to open-minded individuals. The study indicated that tennis enthusiasts tend to form approximately 45% more meaningful connections compared to fans of other major sports. Researchers also noted higher rates of specific sexual interests among tennis fans.
Justin Lehmiller, a social psychologist and fellow at the Kinsey Institute, suggested that tennis itself may not be an aphrodisiac but rather an intellectual stimulant. "Those who are interested in tennis over-index on intellectual games like backgammon and chess," Lehmiller explained, noting that these individuals are often drawn to mental stimulation, strategy, and competition. He added that sharing a love for a sport can create intense and memorable experiences when watching with someone else who shares that engagement.
Confidence coach Katie, 27, also based in New York, echoed the sentiment that live sporting events offer a unique environment for meeting people. "There's such beauty in meeting [a potential partner] out in the wild, especially at an event like The Open. People are like showing up, they’re looking cute, excited, drinking a Honey Deuce — it makes people more open to connecting," she said. Katie mentioned that she had even spotted a potential match for a friend during the daytime sessions, highlighting the social possibilities at the venue.
While some attendees, like Katie, are actively trying to play matchmaker for friends, others are simply looking for a more organic way to connect than through dating apps. The desire for "in-real-life excitement" is a driving force for many, with events like the U.S. Open providing a communal atmosphere for shared enjoyment and potential romantic encounters.