The US Open has become the focal point of a heated debate over tennis etiquette, sparked by the growing presence of content creators and social media influencers at Flushing Meadows. Organizers have expanded accreditation for these digital personalities, doubling the number of influencers allowed to cover this year’s final Grand Slam compared to the previous edition.
While the strategy aims to attract fresh audiences, the resulting noise and distractions in the stands have not gone unnoticed by the athletes competing on the court. One notable incident involved chair umpire Kader Nouni, who halted a group of influencers in a private suite when they began filming a video during an active point. In another case, a creator set up a bright, portable ring light to capture photos, drawing complaints from officials and players alike.
During Naomi Osaka’s second‑round win, chair umpire Marijana Veljovic repeatedly asked the crowd to lower their voices, underscoring the tension between fan enthusiasm and the need for a quiet playing environment. Several players have voiced concerns that the push for online engagement may be overstepping the boundaries of respect for the sport. Two‑time champion Osaka remarked, “If you attend a sporting event, you have to respect the sport,” adding that understanding basic etiquette is a matter of common courtesy.
American third seed Jessica Pegula echoed this sentiment, describing some influencer behavior as "disrespectful." She acknowledged the value of influencers showcasing the US Open experience but stressed that filming, selfie lights, and flash photography can be intrusive for athletes whose careers depend on concentration and focus. The US Open introduced a policy of free fan movement in 2024, allowing spectators to find seats without waiting for changeovers.
Since Osaka’s opening match, the tournament has increased on‑screen messaging reminding attendees to avoid activities that could disturb play, such as excessive noise, flash photography, and the use of ring lights. Despite these efforts, the clash between traditional tennis decorum and modern digital culture continues. World No.
4 Coco Gauff welcomed the influx of new fans brought in by influencers, noting that expanding the sport’s demographic is beneficial. However, she cautioned that newcomers should respect tennis traditions, likening the situation to attending a red‑carpet event in casual attire: “If you’re invited to a red carpet, you wouldn’t show up in jeans. Follow the sport’s etiquette.” Eliza Wastcoat, an influencer with a deep passion for tennis, has leveraged her platform to explore the intersection of the sport and fashion.
After moving to the United States to study at Lehigh University and beginning a career at a creative agency, she believes the game can grow if organizers and influencers collaborate responsibly. Wastcoat, who once served as a Wimbledon ball kid, emphasized that there is room for creators who genuinely appreciate tennis and its customs. She argued that both brands and tournaments should educate influencers about proper conduct, ensuring that players receive the quiet they need to perform. The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has reiterated its commitment to providing fans with an "incredible time" while preventing interference with play.
A recent statement highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to clarify what is allowed and what is prohibited for spectators. Wastcoat noted that the USTA faces a learning curve in determining the right balance of credentials and tickets for newcomers versus seasoned creators who already understand tennis etiquette.
Overall, the situation illustrates a broader tension within sports: how to embrace digital media and influencer culture without compromising the integrity of the live experience. As tennis continues to attract a wider audience, finding that equilibrium will be essential for preserving the sport’s heritage while welcoming the next generation of fans. The US Open will be broadcast live on Sky Sports beginning August 30, with streaming options available on NOW and the Sky Sports app.
Additionally, the Laver Cup will be shown from September 25‑27 on Sky Sports, offering further opportunities for tennis enthusiasts to engage with the sport across multiple platforms.