Influencer Presence at U.S. Open Sparks Debate Over Tennis Etiquette

The U.S. Open has doubled its official influencer accreditation to approximately 100 creators this year, a move that has sparked a debate regarding the balance between growing the sport and maintaining traditional tennis etiquette. The controversy intensified during Naomi Osaka's first round match in Arthur Ashe Stadium, where a group of people filming with a portable ring light and shouting caused a disruption. The match had to be interrupted, and the chair umpire reprimanded the group for their behavior. Osaka later stated that the umpire had to remind the crowd to be quiet more than she had ever heard before, noting that the noise bothered both her and her opponent.

Player reactions to the trend are mixed. Jessica Pegula described the use of selfie lights during performances as disrespectful to the athletes. Coco Gauff noted that while a new demographic helps grow the sport, visitors should follow the etiquette of the game. Conversely, Daniil Medvedev and Frances Tiafoe expressed support for the initiative, with Medvedev stating that increasing awareness and popularity of the sport has more upside than downside.

Tournament officials defend the strategy as a necessary evolution to reach new audiences. Brendan McIntyre, head of communication and content for the U.S. Open, indicated that this upward trend in creator partnerships will likely continue. This approach is attributed to the influence of U.S. Tennis chief Craig Tiley, who previously implemented similar festival like transformations at the Australian Open.