The US Open has become the center of a heated debate about tennis etiquette, sparked by the increasing presence of content creators and social media influencers at Flushing Meadows. Organizers have doubled the number of accredited influencers for this year’s final Grand Slam, hoping to attract new audiences and boost the tournament’s digital reach. However, the influx of cameras, lights, and commentary from the stands has begun to affect the players’ ability to focus, leading to several high‑profile incidents and a broader conversation about where the line should be drawn between fan engagement and respect for the sport.
One of the most notable confrontations occurred when chair umpire Kader Nouni stopped a group of influencers who were filming a video during a live point. The influencers had set up a portable ring light and were attempting to capture a close‑up shot, causing a distraction that prompted Nouni to intervene. In another episode, a creator’s bright ring light was pointed directly at the court, creating glare that disrupted players’ sightlines.
These moments underscored the tension between the desire for shareable content and the need for a quiet, undisturbed playing environment. The issue resurfaced during Naomi Osaka’s second‑round match when chair umpire Marijana Veljovic repeatedly asked the crowd to lower their volume. Osaka herself voiced concern, stating, "I think obviously if you come to a sporting event, you have to respect the sport. I feel like it’s common courtesy to read up on the sport, especially the etiquette." Her remarks reflected a growing sentiment among athletes that the push for online engagement may be crossing a line.
In 2024, the US Open introduced a policy allowing fans to move freely during changeovers, eliminating the previous requirement to remain seated. While the policy was intended to enhance the spectator experience, it also created more opportunities for influencers to position themselves in prime viewing spots, sometimes at the expense of quiet. To mitigate the problem, the tournament has added on‑screen reminders urging fans to avoid flash photography, loud noises, and the use of selfie lights. These messages appear on the big boards throughout the venue and are reinforced by announcements over the public address system.
American third seed Jessica Pegula expressed frustration, labeling some influencer behavior as "disrespectful." She acknowledged the value of influencers in showcasing the US Open experience but emphasized that players are "trying to perform. It’s their career and their job. It seems a bit disrespectful" when distractions occur. Her comments echo those of many players who feel that the sanctity of the match is being compromised for the sake of social media content.
Historically, celebrities have always been a fixture in the stands, from Hollywood stars to political figures like former President Donald Trump, who pay thousands of dollars for premium seats. Yet the modern love affair between influencers and the tournament is creating new challenges. World No.
4 Coco Gauff welcomed the influx of fresh fans, noting that it helps grow the sport, but she also warned that newcomers should respect tennis traditions. "If you’re invited to a red carpet, you wouldn’t show up in jeans. I think it’s just follow the etiquette of the sport," she said. One influencer, Eliza Wastcoat, offers a nuanced perspective.
A tennis enthusiast who studied at Lehigh University and once worked as a Wimbledon ball kid, Wastcoat runs a social‑media channel that blends tennis with fashion. She believes there is room for influencers in the sport, but only if they and tournament organizers collaborate responsibly.
"There is a space in tennis for influencers and content creators to be welcomed into the sport and reach new audiences, but I think there are ways the sport can do that that include creators who appreciate the sport itself and its etiquette," she explained. Wastcoat stresses that both brands and individuals must educate themselves about proper conduct, noting that "players need some quiet and the ability to concentrate." The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has responded by emphasizing its commitment to providing fans with an "incredible time" while ensuring they do not interfere with play.
A recent statement read, "We are continually looking for ways to ensure fans in the stands know what is permitted and what is prohibited." Wastcoat added that the USTA is still learning how to balance the number of credentials granted to new influencers versus seasoned fans, suggesting that the organization must find a middle ground that protects the integrity of the competition. Beyond the immediate disruptions, the situation raises broader questions about the future of live sports in an era dominated by digital content.
As tennis seeks to attract younger viewers, the tournament must decide how much on‑court action can be shared without compromising the players’ focus. Some experts argue that clear guidelines—such as designated media zones, restrictions on lighting equipment, and mandatory etiquette briefings for accredited creators—could preserve the balance between exposure and respect.
The US Open continues to broadcast its matches on Sky Sports from August 30, with additional streaming options on NOW and the Sky Sports app. While fans worldwide can enjoy the competition from home, the on‑site experience remains a delicate dance between tradition and innovation. As the tournament evolves, the dialogue between players, influencers, and governing bodies will likely shape the next chapter of tennis etiquette, ensuring that the sport remains both accessible to new audiences and true to its storied heritage.