Featuring the world's top men's and women's players, the Sony Open in Key Biscayne, Fla., offers one of the most fan-friendly venues in all of tennis. The Tennis Center at Crandon Park is a great spot for watching -- maybe even meeting -- your favorite players. Here are tips on how to best enjoy the Sony Open (or any other live tennis tournament, for that matter):
Insider Guide To The Sony Open Tennis Tourney Slideshow
Do Your Homework
Before you arrive, go to the tournament's website and print out or download the "Order of Play." Map out which matches and players you want to see. Having a game plan will make it easier for you to get the best seats at each of the 18 courts at the venue.
Download The ATP/WTA Mobile App
The ATP/WTA Mobile App is a great way for you to follow the live scores for the matches. You'll know quickly about start times for upcoming matches. Also, you can look out for upsets or close matches, and go see them before the rest of the crowd catches on.
Watch Matches On Outer Courts
The outer (or non-stadium) courts have great sight lines and have open, non-reserved seating. You are elevated just enough to see the entire court but low enough to appreciate the players' speed and athleticism. The outer courts also present a very intimate and sometimes loud atmosphere, which heightens the excitement of the match. Because seating on the outer courts is usually first come, first served (no pun intended), get there early for the best view.
Go To The Practice Courts
The practice courts are an even better way to catch your favorite players up close. In most cases, you will be stationed at court level and ridiculously close, the absolute perfect vantage point to admire how crisply and cleanly the ball is hit. Better yet, practice courts are the best places to get an autograph or even take a picture with your favorite player.
Sit Behind The Court
Please do yourself a favor. Whether you sit in the stadium or an outer court, avoid any neck strain by finding a seat on either end behind the court you are watching.
Remember The Essentials
Here's your checklist: A wide brimmed hat, sunblock, camera batteries, and USB phone charger (you will be using your apps for checking scores, so your battery will drain more quickly). In addition, although you are not allowed to being a thermos, you are permitted to bring plastic bottles. The night before, fill two plastic bottles halfway with water, put them in the freezer, then pour water to fill the next morning. That way, you will have cold water for most of the day while you are enjoying the matches.
-- Sam Lieber is ThePostGame's Chief Technology Officer (and Chief Tennis Officer). He is a former high school All-American and an NCAA Division I player, and is a USTA league national champion. Follow him on Twitter @samlieber.
