New York: Thousands of fans were left stranded in long lines outside Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday as the US Open men’s final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner began, delayed by heightened security for President Donald Trump.

Frustrated spectators booed and chanted “Let us in! Let us in!” as play finally started 30 minutes later than scheduled, with many seats still empty inside the 24,000-capacity venue.

The U.S. Tennis Association pushed back the start from 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EDT, citing security protocols for the president’s visit. But for many, the delay stretched far longer.

Some fans complained they had no warning about the extra security checks. After clearing the usual entrance procedures at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre, they encountered another screening before the steps leading into Ashe.

“We recognise that enhanced security for the President’s visit to the US Open may have contributed to delays for attendees,” the Secret Service said in a statement.

“We sincerely thank every fan for their patience and understanding. Protecting the President required a comprehensive effort, and we are grateful to the US Tennis community and our New York public safety partners for their essential collaboration and support.”

A sign on the stadium’s video board announced the new start time due to “security measures in place”, but for many, that was the first notice.

Sinner admitted he barely noticed the sparse crowd when the match began. “I felt like it was still very loud. I saw some empty seats, but I had no doubts that they’re going to be full and packed,” he said. “It’s not a thing where I was worried that no people would come.”

USTA spokesman Brendan McIntyre insisted fans had been notified in advance. “Emails were sent to ticket holders Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and a push message was sent to the U.S. Open app at 9 a.m. Sunday,” he said.

Yet thousands of ticket holders never saw the alerts. ABC’s broadcaster Chris Fowler remarked during coverage that fans appeared “not adequately told to be prepared for this.”

Some who arrived early to shop or grab concessions regretted the choice. Outside, large screens showed live coverage of the final, allowing stranded fans to follow the action while they waited. AP