SSSSSSSSSS (ten-s)

The US Open returned again to Flushing Meadows in Queens with all the usual fanfare. Mayor Bloomberg, The O'Jays, tennis stars of the past, and the usual contingent of drunken preppies made themselves known on this gorgeous last day of August.

Photo Gallery US Open 2009

This location is special. It embraces the remaining artifacts from the 1969 World's Fair, the Manhattan skyline, the brand new Citi Field baseball stadium, endless outdoor elevated subway trains, and a fiery sunset.

It was a great night for the opening ceremonies.

I took my seat in the stands for the Venus Williams match next to a group of twenty-somethings who I don't even think knew they were at the event. Drinking as fast as they could, I knew it was just a matter of time before this party would be over, or all over me. Just as I predicted, in the next instant I could hear a waterfall of beer headed my way. Luckily, using my cat-like reactions, I popped up, grabbed my things and jumped  down a few rows narrowly missing a early evening shower of suds.

With this near miss behind me, literally, the rest of the evening was a delight. I watched Venus come back from an injury and using her tremendous raw power and skills battle back and win her match in a way only she can. In her interview at center court after the win she was asked how she managed such a comeback. Venus simply said "I'm tough, real tough."  I like that.  A woman who is a smart strong fighter and not afraid to tell the world. I hope she goes all the way.