Crowds of people flocked into the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Saturday for Arthur Ashe Kids' Day — one of the U.S. Open’s most popular days during fan week.

This is the first time event returned since the pandemic began.

“I like getting signatures watching them and playing games,” Blake Taffet, a nine-year-old tennis fan, said.  

Taffet and his friend, Alex Morganstern, were among many kids with a close-up view of their favorite tennis players hitting the courts for practice.

“I’m looking forward to seeing Nadal and seeing Serena,” Morganstern said.  

“I think it’s an amazing experience being able to see the top players for free,” Elizabeth Campo, 14-year-old tennis fan, said.

As Rafael Nadal volleyed on the court, fans looked on while some were hoping for signatures and others taking notes.

“I like how his forehand is and how he has a lot of power and I’m learning from him,” Morganstern said.

Kids got their chance at practice outside of the main courts.

Officials estimate over 30,000 people to hit the grounds to take part in a slew of family friendly activities in honor of the life and legacy of Arthur Ashe.

“Arthur Ashe was a tennis player, a Black tennis player who started at 6, won the U.S. open the Wimbledon, and Australian open,” Amel Chin-Chance, who was attending the event with her twin brother and aunt, said.

While some fans spent the day collecting signatures from players, others got to listen to live performances from kid stars, like Young Dylan of Nickelodeon.

For six-year-old Brooklynite Layla Robin, this was her first introduction to the sport, and she said she had the best time.

“It’s fun things to do and I love my family,” Robin said.