The 2024 US Open is set to begin on August 26 and run till September 8. Top players from both the men's and women's divisions will be battling it out on the courts of New York to win one of the most coveted trophies in the world of tennis.
The weather during the specified fortnight in New York will be key, as it could impact playing conditions and match scheduling, in case of severe rain. As per Accuweather, there is a 30 percent chance of rain on the opening two days of the tournament, August 26 and 27, with the temperature being in the range of 24-29 degrees Celsius.
On the third day (August 28), maximum rain is expected during the US Open. There is a 58 percent chance of precipitation and a possibility of strong winds. 40 percent rain is predicted for August 29.
However, weather conditions are expected to improve from August 31 to September 6, with 0-25 percent chances of rain during these days. Any disruption of the schedule is unlikely and matches should progress uninterrupted.
The closing two days, September 7 and September 8, have some chances of rain yet again. There is a 56 percent chance of rain on both days, with low winds and high humidity. Although finals are usually held at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, the retractable roof will be ensure that the matches can proceed without any disruption even if it rains.
Weather conditions were extreme at the 2023 US Open
The 2023 US Open saw players drain themselves on the court in difficult playing conditions, with the stifling heat and uncomfortable humidity levels making lives difficult for the players.
One such match at the event where the temperature and humidity conditions were particularly severe was the quarter-final encounter between Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev. Both players struggled in the heat and humid conditions. After the match, Medvedev admitted that it was difficult for him to even watch the ball due to the disorienting effects of the heat.
"Honestly, at the end of the first set, I kind of couldn’t see the ball anymore. I kind of played with sensations, you know. You just try to go for it; try to run; try to catch the balls,” he said.
The organizers had introduced additional breaks to provide relief to the players in case of long-duration matches. The roofs were also partially closed to provide shade, but all these measures seemed to have little effect on players' condition.