In an intriguing twist of fate, entertainment producer Michael Fiur recently revealed a gap in the 2003 U.S. Open lineup that could have featured none other than Taylor Swift. During a nostalgic segment on Andy Roddick’s “Served” podcast, Fiur reflected on how he missed out on securing a performance from the pop icon, which he now considers “the worst decision I ever made.”
Looking back at Swift’s early days, Fiur recounted how in 2002, Merv Heller, then-president of the USTA, suggested letting Swift, who was just 12 at the time, sing the national anthem. “We were like sure,” Fiur expressed, having been involved with the U.S. Open festivities for over twenty years.
However, the story took a turn when a year later, her father proposed that Swift perform at Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day. Unfortunately, Fiur turned it down, reasoning, “She’s just taking off, she’s really country, we don’t think that will play in New York.”
Roddick humorously pointed out the potential public reaction to this decision, to which Fiur reaffirmed, “Worst decision I ever made.”
Since that pivotal moment at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Swift’s career has soared to unparalleled heights. The 34-year-old is a 14-time Grammy winner and a billionaire, having released her 11th studio album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” earlier this year. She is also set to conclude her highly successful Eras Tour in December.
Currently taking a break from performances, Swift is enjoying quality time with her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, 34. The couple has been making headlines for their high-profile romance, which has captivated fans since they went public last year.
Swift and Kelce were spotted together at the men’s final of the U.S. Open on September 8, where they cheered on as Jannik Sinner triumphed over Taylor Fritz to win his first U.S. Open title. The couple shared a private box with friends, including Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and his wife, Brittany.
Before their U.S. Open appearance, Swift was present at the Chiefs’ season opener in Kansas City on September 5, where the defending Super Bowl champions emerged victorious against the Ravens with a score of 27-20.
As for Swift’s upcoming plans, it remains uncertain whether she will attend the Chiefs-Chargers game in Los Angeles this Sunday after missing last week’s road victory in Atlanta.
