Sure! Here’s a paraphrased version of the article, maintaining the core information and structure you requested:
<div>
<figure id="attachment_96119" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-96119" style="width: 580px" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.westsiderag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_9334.jpg">
<img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="wp-image-96119 size-full" src="https://www.westsiderag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_9334.jpg" alt="" width="580" height="640" srcset="https://www.westsiderag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_9334.jpg 580w, https://www.westsiderag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_9334-272x300.jpg 272w" sizes="(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px"/>
</a>
<figcaption id="caption-attachment-96119" class="wp-caption-text"><em>The 2024 US Open. Photos by Tracy Zwick</em></figcaption>
</figure>
<p><strong>By Tracy Zwick</strong></p>
<p>Upper West Side tennis enthusiasts are excited as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.usopen.org/index.html">the US Open</a> begins on Monday, August 18th. Local residents can easily access the tournament via the subway or the LIRR, enjoying lots of activities for free this week. Here’s what to expect, how to get there, and some highlights for 2025, featuring local talents who are essential for the tournament’s tagline: "Spectacular Awaits."</p>
<p>Stay tuned to WSR to discover more about local participants performing on big stages and those working behind the scenes. Notable player Aleksander Kovacevic, currently ranked 62nd globally, will join the tournament’s main draw starting August 24 and concluding on September 7. Columbia's Michael Zheng, the NCAA Champion and top player at Columbia, will attempt to qualify this week. We’ll keep you updated on their journeys, as well as feature individuals involved in different roles, from ball crew members to racket stringers.</p>
<p><strong><em><a target="_blank" href="https://www.westsiderag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_6701.jpeg"><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-96118 size-full" src="https://www.westsiderag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_6701.jpeg" alt="" width="960" height="1280"/></a>What’s the schedule? </em></strong> The tournament kicks off this Monday! The US Tennis Association (USTA) is quick to showcase the sport's premier athletes. Throughout the week, fans can watch players practice for free. Top competitors like Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Jessica Pegula, and others will commence their quest for the mixed doubles championship and its $1 million prize. Unlike the free qualifying tournament this week, tickets starting around $40 are required for the mixed doubles matches. Free family-friendly activities, a silent disco, sponsor exhibits, and more await. To navigate the event, download the US Open app for practice schedules, maps, and scores, and don’t forget to grab a free <a target="_blank" href="https://www.usopen.org/en_US/fan-week/fan-access-pass.html">Fan Access Pass</a> for easy access to complimentary activities.</p>
<p><strong><em>Getting there from UWS: </em></strong> To reach the tournament, take the 1/2/3 train to the 7 line at Times Square, which will transport you directly to the Mets-Willets Point Station. The LIRR also services this station, offering a closer entry to the tournament. For those who prefer driving, onsite parking is available. There are also rideshare options, but expect longer wait times.</p>
<p><strong><em>Ticket information: </em></strong> Tickets are not required for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.usopen.org/en_US/about/us_open_fan_week.html">Fan Week</a> events, which run from Monday through Saturday. Fans can watch leading players practice and see those vying for a spot in the main draw via the qualifiers, all for free this week. However, tickets are needed for the mixed doubles championships. Round 1 of the main draw starts on Sunday, August 24, requiring a ticket for entry. A <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/usopentennis?external=true">grounds pass</a> is the best option, costing around $150.</p>
<p><strong><em>Competitors to watch: </em></strong> The tournament draw will be revealed on Thursday, August 21. Among the competitors, there are 18 former Grand Slam singles champions, including 10 former US Open winners. Defending champion Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and Carlos Alcaraz are all set to return this year, with a strong contingent of American players such as Francis Tiafoe and Venus Williams.</p>
<p><strong><em>Culinary offerings: </em></strong> While tennis is the highlight, the US Open also features an array of dining options. Renowned chefs like Kwame Onwuachi and José Andrés will offer delicious dishes. A newcomer this year is Robbie Felice's pastaRamen. Guests can enjoy various tasty items, like <a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CxNtTI4rimD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">zeppoli bao buns</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.greygoose.com/cocktails/grey-goose-vodka/honey-deuce.html?srsltid=AfmBOoryQLkW0Kixuwa7ckm984cXHwdVidUYCYDtfg3O4ffcNi6l3_oE">Honey Deuce</a> cocktails served in collectible cups, garnished with honeydew scoops.</p>
<p><strong><em>Viewing options from UWS: </em></strong> New Yorkers can catch the tournament live on ESPN, with coverage including ABC, ESPN, and ESPN2. For those into reality shows, the USTA is launching an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/04/style/us-open-matchmaker-dating-show.html?campaign_id=44&emc=edit_ur_20250805&instance_id=159896&nl=new-york-today&regi_id=81406902&segment_id=203271&user_id=dcd91a8c57ad41363aaf672fd6da90a5">8-episode series</a> called “<a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DMxlyjXs9Sq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">Game, Set, Matchmaker</a>”, filmed during Fan Week and airing on YouTube during the main draw.</p>
<p><strong><em>Tips from TZ: </em></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Use the US Open website and app for planning and navigation.</li>
<li>Wear sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.</li>
<li>Save on costs by bringing your own snacks and water.</li>
<li>Opt for comfortable footwear, as you’ll be walking a lot.</li>
<li>Maintain quiet during matches to respect players and fellow attendees.</li>
</ul>
<p>Have a great time! Feel free to share your tips, stories, and must-see matches in the comments!</p>
<p><strong><em>Subscribe to West Side Rag’s FREE email newsletter <a target="_blank" href="https://westsiderag.us6.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=5772ebf2a0a585445f1188785&id=f50755d5f9">here</a>. Support the Rag <a target="_blank" href="https://www.westsiderag.com/support-west-side-rag" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.</a></em></strong></p>
</div>Feel free to adjust any specific wording or details!
