As the tennis world saddles up for the 136th United States Open, I, too, ready myself for the traditions of my favorite Grand Slam tournament. I was born and raised in New York to a father whose love of tennis is so great, he made the most die-hard Trekkies, Beliebers, and Cheeseheads look like neophytes to their fandom. And, thanks to his uncanny ability to scope out the fairest ticket scalpers, we made annual pilgrimage to Arthur Ashe Stadium to revel in the unique Open rituals.
From desperate efforts to get autographs on ridiculous giant Tennis balls, to joining with friends and family to see the most promising young talent, there were many memories we shared.