The US Open has become the centre of a heated debate about tennis etiquette, sparked by the increasing presence of content creators and social media influencers at Flushing Meadows. Organisers have doubled the number of accredited creators for this year’s final Grand Slam, hoping to attract fresh audiences, but the surge in on‑court noise and visual distractions has been felt by players and officials alike.
During a recent match, chair umpire Kader Nouni halted play to reprimand a group of influencers who were filming a video in the middle of a point from a private suite. In another incident, a creator used a bright, portable ring light to snap photos, creating a glare that disrupted the concentration of the athletes.
The situation escalated further in Naomi Osaka’s second‑round victory when chair umpire Marijana Veljovic repeatedly asked the crowd to lower their voices, highlighting how the influx of digital media activity can interfere with the flow of the game. Several players have voiced concerns that the push for online engagement may have gone too far. Two‑time champion Osaka remarked, “If you attend a sporting event, you have to respect the sport.” She added, “It’s common courtesy to learn the etiquette before you come.” Her comments echo a broader sentiment among competitors who feel that the traditional quiet and decorum of tennis are being compromised. The US Open introduced a policy of free fan movement in 2024, allowing spectators to move to their seats during changeovers without waiting.
While the intention was to enhance the fan experience, the policy has also made it easier for influencers to position themselves close to the action. In response, the tournament has increased on‑screen messaging reminding attendees to avoid activities that could disturb play, such as loud cheering, flash photography, and the use of selfie lights. American third seed Jessica Pegula described some of the influencer behaviour as "disrespectful." She acknowledged the value of influencers showcasing the US Open experience but stressed that filming and using bright lights while players are performing is inconsiderate.
"People are down there trying to perform. It’s their career and their job. It seems a bit disrespectful," she said.
Celebrities have long been a fixture in the stands, from Hollywood stars to former President Donald Trump, with affluent fans paying thousands of dollars for premium seats. However, the growing love affair between influencers and the premier American tennis event has introduced new challenges.
World No. 4 Coco Gauff welcomed the influx of new fans but urged them to respect tennis traditions.
"It’s great to have a new demographic and it helps grow the sport," she said, "but if you’re invited to a red‑carpet event, you wouldn’t show up in jeans. Follow the etiquette of the sport." One influencer, Eliza Wastcoat, who blends tennis expertise with fashion, believes there is room for creators to help grow the game, provided they understand and respect its customs. Wastcoat, a Lehigh University graduate who began her career at a creative agency and once served as a Wimbledon ball kid, launched a social‑media channel exploring the intersection of tennis and style.
She argued, "There is space for influencers in tennis, but it must be done in a way that includes those who appreciate the sport and its etiquette. Both brands and tournaments should educate newcomers about proper conduct." Wastcoat emphasized that the United States Tennis Association (USTA) must strike a balance between granting credentials to new creators and protecting the players’ need for quiet concentration. "It’s a learning curve for the USTA," she said.
"How many tickets do we give to newcomers versus seasoned creators who respect the sport? Finding that balance is key." The USTA has stated its goal is to give fans an "incredible time" while ensuring they do not interfere with the action. A recent press release read, "We are continually looking for ways to ensure fans in the stands know what is permitted and what is prohibited." Beyond the immediate concerns, the influencer phenomenon reflects a broader shift in how sports are consumed.
Live streaming platforms, short‑form video apps, and social media have turned spectators into content producers, blurring the line between fan and broadcaster. This democratization can boost viewership and attract younger audiences, but it also demands new rules and education to preserve the integrity of the competition.
Experts suggest several measures to mitigate disruption: stricter accreditation criteria, designated filming zones away from the court, mandatory etiquette briefings for all credentialed media, and the prohibition of bright lighting devices during play. Some tournaments have already implemented "quiet zones" where phones must be silenced and flash photography banned. As tennis continues to evolve, the sport’s governing bodies, players, and influencers must collaborate to find a sustainable model that embraces modern media while honoring the centuries‑old traditions that define the game.
The conversation sparked at the US Open may serve as a catalyst for policy changes that balance fan engagement with the essential need for a focused, respectful environment on the court. The US Open will be broadcast live on Sky Sports starting August 30, with streaming options available on NOW and the Sky Sports App, ensuring fans can follow the action without compromising the on‑court experience.