During 2020, tennis participation in the United States increased by 22 percent. By Arthur Kapetanakis and Victoria Chiesa W hile the U.S. Open is a perennial showcase for the world's best tennis players, the 2020 event also had put the world's best physical distancing sport in the spotlight. As one of the first major sporting events held following nationwide coronavirus (COVID-19) stay-at-home orders, the 2020 U.S. Open showcased - on the world's largest tennis stage - that the sport could indeed be played safely. PARK S ANDRECRE AT ION . OR G | JULY 2 0 2 1 | Parks & Recreation 47