Picture this: you’re courtside at the U.S. Open, the energy of the crowd buzzing around you, and in your hand is the tournament’s iconic Honey Deuce cocktail. It’s refreshing, it’s stylish, and those honeydew melon balls floating in the drink look just like tiny tennis balls. But then you glance at the receipt—$23 for a single drink. Ouch. That price tag might make you pause, especially when you realize it’s 50% more than what fans paid a decade ago. So, what’s driving the cost of this beloved beverage, and how does it stack up against broader economic trends? Let’s dive into the world of the Honey Deuce and explore why its price is rallying faster than inflation.
The Honey Deuce: A U.S. Open Tradition
The Honey Deuce isn’t just a drink—it’s a vibe. Served in a collectible souvenir glass, this vodka-based cocktail has become a hallmark of the U.S. Open experience. With its pink hue and those playful honeydew melon garnishes, it’s as much a photo-op as it is a refreshment. But its price has been climbing steadily, and fans are noticing. Since 2012, the cost has jumped six times, landing at $23 today. That’s a steep increase for a drink that’s essentially vodka, lemonade, and a splash of raspberry liqueur.
Why does this matter? For many, the Honey Deuce is more than a cocktail; it’s a symbol of the U.S. Open’s allure, a way to feel part of the event’s glamour. Yet, as prices soar, I can’t help but wonder: is the experience still worth it, or are we just paying for the prestige?
How the Honey Deuce Stacks Up Against Inflation
Let’s get to the numbers. Back in 2015, a Honey Deuce cost $15. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s up to $23—a 53% increase. That’s no small change. To put it in perspective, the consumer price index (CPI), which tracks the cost of a broad basket of goods and services, rose by about 36% over the same period. If the Honey Deuce had kept pace with inflation, it would cost around $20.33 today. Instead, it’s outpacing the broader economy by a significant margin.
The Honey Deuce’s price hike reflects more than just inflation—it’s a premium for the experience.
– Event pricing analyst
This gap is striking. While everyday items like groceries or gas have seen price increases, the Honey Deuce’s surge feels like it’s playing in a different league. It’s not just about the cost of vodka or honeydew melons; it’s about the event-driven economy that thrives on exclusivity and spectacle.
Funflation: The Experience Economy at Play
Here’s where things get interesting. The Honey Deuce’s price isn’t just about ingredients—it’s tied to a phenomenon called funflation. This term describes the willingness of consumers to splurge on experiences like concerts, travel, and sporting events, even when budgets are tight. The U.S. Open, with its glitz and grandeur, is a perfect example. Fans aren’t just buying a drink; they’re buying a piece of the event’s magic.
Last year alone, over 550,000 Honey Deuces were sold, raking in nearly $13 million. That’s a lot of melon balls! It shows that despite the steep price, people are still eager to indulge. In my opinion, this reflects a broader shift: we’re prioritizing moments over materials, even if it means paying a premium.
- Experience over value: Fans see the Honey Deuce as part of the U.S. Open’s allure, not just a drink.
- Souvenir factor: The collectible glass adds perceived value, making the price feel justified.
- Social media buzz: A Honey Deuce in hand is Instagram gold, driving demand.
Comparing Cocktail Costs to Other Drinks
The Honey Deuce isn’t alone in its price creep, but it’s outpacing other alcoholic beverages. The average cost of drinks consumed outside the home in U.S. cities has risen by about 34% since 2015—slightly below the overall CPI. So, while your local bar’s craft cocktail might cost more than it did a decade ago, it’s not climbing as fast as the Honey Deuce.
| Item | Price Increase (2015-2025) |
| Honey Deuce | 53% |
| General CPI | 36% |
| Alcoholic Drinks (Out of Home) | 34% |
This table paints a clear picture: the Honey Deuce is in a league of its own. But why? I suspect it’s because event organizers know fans will pay for the privilege of sipping something iconic while watching world-class tennis.
Why Couples Love the Honey Deuce Experience
Now, let’s talk about why the Honey Deuce resonates with couples. The U.S. Open is a popular date destination, blending sport, style, and a touch of romance. Sharing a Honey Deuce—or snapping a selfie with matching drinks—has become a ritual for many. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the shared moment, the thrill of being part of something bigger.
In my experience, there’s something undeniably fun about splurging on an overpriced drink with your partner at an event like this. It’s a small indulgence that feels special, like stealing a moment of luxury together. But as prices climb, couples might start asking: is one cocktail worth the cost of two movie tickets?
Sharing a Honey Deuce with my partner at the U.S. Open felt like we were part of the event’s legacy.
– Avid tenniszor
The Psychology Behind the Price
Why are we so willing to pay $23 for a cocktail? It’s not just about the drink’s ingredients—it’s about psychology. The Honey Deuce taps into our desire for status and belonging. Holding that souvenir glass signals you’re part of the U.S. Open crowd, a member of an exclusive club. Event organizers lean into this, knowing fans will pay for the privilege.
Psychologists suggest that spending on experiences like this boosts our sense of connection and identity. It’s why couples, friends, and families keep buying, despite the cost. The Honey Deuce isn’t just a drink; it’s a badge of honor.
Is the Honey Deuce Worth It?
Here’s the million-dollar question: is the Honey Deuce worth $23? For some, the answer is a resounding yes. The drink, the glass, the vibe—it’s all part of the U.S. Open experience. For others, the price feels like a racket (pun intended). If you’re budget-conscious, you might opt for a cheaper alternative at the venue or save your cash for post-match drinks elsewhere.
- Budget tip: Share a Honey Deuce with your partner to split the cost and still enjoy the experience.
- Alternative: Explore other food and drink options at the U.S. Open for a more wallet-friendly treat.
- Plan ahead: Set a spending limit for event indulgences to avoid buyer’s remorse.
Personally, I think the Honey Deuce is a splurge worth making once, especially if you’re at the U.S. Open with someone special. But if you’re attending multiple matches, those $23 drinks add up fast.
What’s Next for the Honey Deuce?
Will the Honey Deuce keep getting pricier? If current trends continue, probably. As long as fans are willing to pay, event organizers have little incentive to slow the increases. But there’s a tipping point. If prices climb too high, even the most devoted fans might start passing on the cocktail in favor of more affordable options.
For now, the Honey Deuce remains a must-try for many U.S. Open attendees, especially couples looking to make memories. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the cost of an experience isn’t just about the product—it’s about the story you get to tell. So, next time you’re at the U.S. Open, will you shell out for a Honey Deuce, or will you keep your wallet on the sidelines?
The choice is yours, but one thing’s for sure: the Honey Deuce is more than a drink—it’s a slice of tennis history, served with a side of sticker shock.
