Men’s Nationals go under the Big Top

Handling the crowds at the Men’s Nationals created some challenges. With the growing popularity and spectator appeal of the game, the APTA decided to limit the crowds and defray tournament expenses by charging admission into the Fox Meadow grounds. Also, for the 1975 event, Fox Meadow Tennis Club planned to install a large tent in the parking lot, in order to provide creature comforts and food for spectators at the semis and finals.

There would be a general admission charge of $2 for adults and $1 for children. Super-fans could purchase a clubhouse pass, entitling them to lunch for $10. Under this new format only pass-holders, officials, semi-finalists and their wives would be permitted access to the clubhouse.

Source: Off The Wire, Vol. 6 No. 3