Ida Lashes US Open, Penetrates Armstrong Stadium

Former Hurricane Ida caused havoc at the US Open Wednesday night, flooding the grounds, toppling furniture and even forcing the suspension of play under a closed roof on Louis Armstrong Stadium.

The storm also forced New York’s famed subway service to be suspended, stranding many fans who stayed for the night session. Fans returning to their cars had to wade through knee-deep water at times and many found water up to the bottom of their car’s doors. Some trees outside the park gates had fallen.

The Diego Schwartzman vs. Kevin Anderson match on Armstrong was twice interrupted due to sideways rain making it into the stadium. Fans opened umbrellas and rain made it onto the playing surface.

The match was finally suspended early in the second set and rescheduled to Arthur Ashe Stadium following the conclusion of Stefanos Tsitsipas’ four-set win over Adrian Mannarino.

Sideways rain roaring into Louis Armstrong Stadium. pic.twitter.com/X08DjmRUSM

— Darren Cahill (@darren_cahill) September 2, 2021

Tornado and flash flood warnings were issued for areas nearby to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre and spectators were at times advised to stay indoors until conditions eased.

Conditions were so dire that flights were halted at Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the three main airports servicing New York City. Central Park in Manhattan recorded more than three inches of rain in a one-hour period.

Final update pic.twitter.com/INA8C7eIit

— Darren Cahill (@darren_cahill) September 2, 2021