How Long Do Players Spend on Court After Matches Signing Giant Tennis Balls? By Jim Chairusmi Roger Federer signs autographs at this year's U.S. Open. Getty Images for USTA An autograph from a tennis star is one of the most coveted souvenirs at the U.S. Open. But securing one isn't easy. It requires agility, good court positioning and a bit of luck. It also requires a player willing to sign enough autographs to get to yours, which raises an essential question: Which player represents an autograph seeker's best bet? To find out, the Count broke out the stopwatch to tally how long top players have been signing balls, shirts, programs and the occasional body part after winning their matches at this year's U.S. Open. The answer: When in doubt, stake ou