By Richard Kent, Staff Reporter

NEW YORK — Is there a better day at the US Open in Flushing Meadows than the Thursday before the US Open actually starts? Maybe not. Perhaps a great semis day for the men or women with 2 tight matches, but other than that, probably not.

It starts with dozens of matches with top players in the world, aiming to make the main draw in the Open, starting Monday at 11 am. Players like Genie Bouchard, who won her match to gain a slot in the main draw. Or New York’s own Jamie Loeb, also winning a slot into the main draw.

Perhaps there was a fascination with 6-foot-11 Ivo Karlovic, 2016 winner of the Hall of Fame Championship, losing perhaps his last chance, at the age of 39 to make the prestigious main draw.

And the fans came out in droves to watch the qualifiers. Fans from all over the world. And it’s all free. Then throw in most of the top players in the world practicing against each other and you have a greater day.

How about Novak Djokovic, the favorite to win the men’s singles against highly regarded Alexander Zverev. That match was played in the architecturally pleasing Grandstand.

And maybe the crowd could get a gander of no. 2 seed and 5-time US Champion walking out of the beautiful new player’s garden. And there was the very popular Juan Martin del Potro practicing with his coach, also on the Grandstand.

What a day. What an event.