WHITE PLAINS, March 23, 2019 (USTA Press Release)
The USTA announced two additions to the officiating leadership team for the 2019 US Open, with Melanie Tabb and Keith Crossland being named as US Open Assistant Tournament Referees. Both individuals will report to Soeren Friemel, who earlier this month was named the US Open Tournament Referee.
As Assistant Tournament Referees, Crossland and Tabb will assist the Tournament Referee in ensuring that the US Open is conducted fairly and in accordance with all of the written rules, regulations and procedures. They will be heavily involved in all areas, with a focus on electronic line calling, scheduling, and coordination with the US Open Command Center in regards to player operations. In addition, Crossland and Tabb will liaise with referees of the Junior and Wheelchair competitions.
Crossland holds the position of USTA Supervisor. Certified as a Gold Badge Referee, he is responsible for on-site aspects of events, including conducting draws, scheduling, officials and integrity. Crossland has served as Deputy Referee for the US Open since 1990, helping to manage the scheduling process and systems, daily order of play publication, and as assistant referee. He also served as US Open Chief Umpire from 1994-1996, and has served as a Deputy Referee at the Australian Open since 2009. In addition, Crossland has served as referee at multiple ATP Tour tournaments and Davis Cup ties.
Tabb holds the position of Tour Supervisor & Senior Manager, Tournament Administration, for the WTA. In this capacity, she is responsible with overseeing and supervising WTA tournaments on-site, including conducting draws and scheduling order of play. Certified as a Gold Badge Referee, she has served as supervisor at numerous high level events, including WTA Premier Mandatory and WTA Premier tournaments. Tabb has also served as a Grand Slam Supervisor at the US Open, as well as at the Australian Open, Roland Garros, and Wimbledon, and has served as referee at multiple Fed Cup ties.
The main draw of the 2019 US Open will be held Monday, August 26 to Sunday, September 8, with US Open Fan Week, including the US Open Qualifying Tournament, beginning the previous week on Tuesday, August 20.
