Anniversary to dominate US Open final weekend

Anniversary to dominate US Open final weekend The US Open plans to take full advantage of its 2011 timing as the tenth anniversary of the 2001 New York terror attacks falls on the day of the men's final next weekend.

While the timing cannot be guaranteed at a event which has had to stage its finals a day late for the last three years due to rain and no showcourt roof, plans are to go well over the top on the day.

The anniversary is looking like the perfect ceremony opportunity for national television. Plans call for painting the logo "9-11" on the Ashe showcase court itself. The unusual display will be hard to miss, placed across the court from where the chair umpire sits and players rest during changeovers.

In an effort to give as much spin to the 9-11 day as was given to Hurricane Irene by weather forecasters this past weekend, all players are to receive an officials "9-11" US Open hat from the thriving tournament gift shop.

Cops, firemen and soldiers will be in plentiful supply around the grounds and even on the court, with the ceremony to feature everything from a moment of silence to a jet flyover planned. Tennis will also be played.