• Loading stock data...
Thursday, September 18, 2025

Crowd Control: U.S. Open Taking a Less-Is-More Approach With Fans

  • About 225,000 fans are expected to attend the championship, less than previous years in Pinehurst.
  • There’s also a new, unique option for getting to the tournament.
FOS image

The U.S. Open is teeing off Thursday at Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina as organizers plan on welcoming an estimated 225,000 fans throughout the tournament week. That’s a lower total than the previous two U.S. Opens at the course, in 2014 and ’05, as the focus shifts from packing in as many people as possible to a more comfortable atmosphere for fans—at a higher price point.

In 2014, Pinehurst welcomed roughly 55,000 fans on peak days. This year, no more than 45,000 will be admitted daily, with the cheapest general admission tickets that start at $225 sold out for each round except the final on Sunday. More expensive options include a reserved grandstand (starting at $325) and luxury tickets that range from slightly under $1,000 all the way up to the $2,500 per day at 1895 Club, which is completely sold out.

All Aboard

The village of Pinehurst has a population of less than 20,000, so even the reduced spectator load this year still represents some logistical challenges. For fans coming from Raleigh, which is about 70 miles away, there’s a new transportation option. 

The United States Golf Association partnered with Amtrak to run a special train, dubbed the “Open Express,” daily from Raleigh to Pinehurst. Round-trip tickets start at $25 for the train that leaves in the morning, arrives to one of the U.S. Open spectator gates, and returns in the evening. Parked next to the driving range all day, the train provides some fun views for fans watching golfers practice.

Ownership Perks

While the USGA is using nearly every inch of space and permanent infrastructure around the course to build out corporate hospitality that has resulted in more than $23 million worth of sales, the owners of Pinehurst Resort saved some prime real estate for themselves. 

The Dedman family, which has owned the property since 1984, is keeping The Deuce restaurant right behind the 18th green for special guests. About 50 to 100 lucky attendees will be entertained each day at the coveted spot that is typically a watering hole for tired golfers searching for post-round libations.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Lionel Messi

Messi Near New Deal to Stay in MLS, Miami

His contract with Inter Miami was set to expire in December.
exclusive

Stan Verrett Joining FanDuel Sports Network in Multiple Roles

The former ESPN “SportsCenter” anchor has found a new home.

ESPN Draws Highest ‘MNF’ Doubleheader Audience Since 2015

Buccaneers–Texans and Chargers–Raiders averaged 13.5 million viewers.
Baseball

NCAA Settles With Volunteer Baseball Coaches for $49 Million

A similar suit brought by volunteer coaches of other sports remains open.

Featured Today

Adriunna Brown

Business Is Booming for WNBA’s Top Beauty Pros

A network of stylists is shaping how players look, feel, and perform.
Premier Lacrosse League
September 14, 2025

‘The Circus Is Coming to Town’: Why Upstart Leagues Start on Tour

In their ambitious plans, a traveling schedule is only temporary.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 19: A detailed view of the MLB Debut patch on the jersey of Patrick Monteverde #44 of the Miami Marlins prior to game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on April 19, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
September 13, 2025

The Tiny Jersey Patch at the Center of the MLB Rookie Card..

Autographed cards containing a piece of baseball history have upended the market.
September 11, 2025

Eagles-Chiefs Super Bowl Rematch Could Set More NFL Ratings Records

Fox will nationally televise Sunday afternoon’s matchup.
Sep 14, 2025; Bridgeview, Illinois, USA; Portland Thorns FC midfielder Olivia Moultrie (13) kicks the ball past Chicago Stars FC defender Sam Staab (3) during the second half of a match at SeatGeek Stadium.
September 16, 2025

NWSL Beefs Up Media Deal With More CBS, ESPN, Adds Victory+

The NWSL has been locked into its existing deal since last year.
September 16, 2025

Adam Silver Walks Back Claim He’d Never Heard of Aspiration

Adam Silver spoke at the Front Office Sports Tuned In summit.
Sponsored

How World Series Champ Dexter Fowler Became a Premier League Team Owner

Dexter Fowler discusses navigating retirement and embracing new roles as an owner & investor.
Sep 14, 2025; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Aces guard Jewell Loyd (24) gestures to a teammate after scoring against the Seattle Storm in the first quarter during game one of round one for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at Michelob Ultra Arena.
September 15, 2025

Aces Surge From Collapse to Contention With Dynasty at Stake

The turnaround started after a 53-point loss to the Minnesota Lynx.
September 15, 2025

Tush Push Debate Heats Up in Eagles Win, Ex-NFL Rules Chief Sounds..

The Eagles are continuing to run the quarterback-sneak play.
September 14, 2025

Most NFL Home Teams Opt to Honor Charlie Kirk Before Games

Several NFL teams playing at home on Sunday recognized the late activist. Some did not.
September 14, 2025

Crawford-Alvarez Bout Draws Biggest Crowd in Vegas Boxing History

Record attendance, a big gate, and growing ambitions mark the high-profile bout.