In its 21st year as a U.S. Open partner, American Express has created a mega-Fan Experience just inside the East Gate. The 20,000 square foot building includes a variety of options for all sorts of U.S. Open attendees.
"We know we have two types of fans: Fans who are serious about tennis and play it and fans who may not be as strong players, but like to watch it," says Michele Carr, American Express Director of Sports Sponsorship and Strategy. "We are dedicated to providing the most enjoyable experience for both groups."
The 2014 U.S. Open Fan Experience features both hands-on attractions and technological advancements. American Express invited ThePostGame to take a stab at them and find out what the Fan Experience is all about.
The U.S. Open American Express Fan Experience
The U.S. Open American Express Fan Experience
The Fan Experience covers 20,000 square feet of USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center ground. Along with the attractions, the two-story venue features a range of couches, chairs and stools (and two bars).
Rally Cam
The rally cam is located in the middle of the first floor. The photo area attracts individuals of all ages.
Rally Cam
The Rally Cam's 180 degree technology takes a wide video file. Fans have the opportunity to test their swing.
Rally Cam
Or strike a pose.
Rally Cam
Or get air like World No. 69 Monica Puig.
Rally Cam
Or make a game face like world No. 55 Jack Sock.
Rally Cam
Or look like a fool similar to this author.
Professional Swing Analysis
Puig shows off the professional swing analysis. The attraction's technology measures impact position, racquet speed and spin rate.
Professional Swing Analysis
After watching tennis all day, the Professional Swing Analysis is a way to get out one's tennis energy. A ball machine sets up live shots to smack against a wall.
Professional Swing Analysis
Here's an example of the analytics (with the author's very mediocre report)
Pro Cam at American Express Card Member Club
Enter an augmented reality Pro Cam with a hologram of World No. 24 Sloane Stephens. Fans can take a picture with Sloane in a variety of poses (this picture features the real Sloane Stephens during Arthur Ashe Kids Day).
Pro Cam at American Express Card Member Club
If you choose the game face feature, make sure to look a little more intimidating than the author.
International Tennis Hall of Fame & Fresh Courts Interactive Exhibits:
Take a look back at tennis history through a series of interactive tables. Features include a timeline of U.S. Open racquets and wardrobes.
International Tennis Hall of Fame & Fresh Courts Interactive Exhibits:
Along with the written history, the Fan Experience boasts a variety of artifacts from the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
Fan Court
The Fan Experience is not compete without a regulation size hard court. The court hosts clinics, meet and greets and open play for fans.
Fan Court
There is no shame in bringing your own racquet to test your game on the Fan Court (although, racquets can be provided).
Fan Court
Hey, maybe even former world No. 4 and two-time U.S. Open quarterfinalist James Blake will give you some tips.
Fan Court
Sock tests his speed on the fan court.
Fan Court
Puig takes a crack at a backhand.
Other Attractions
One of the other intriguing attractions is the IBM U.S. Open Sessions. IBM is partnering with James Murphy to turn U.S. Open data during matches into live music and visualizations. The Fan Experience also includes a complimentary phone charging station with locking ability and a "club" area for American Express card members.
-- Follow Jeffrey Eisenband on Twitter @JeffEisenband.
