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The presence of influencers and tennis etiquette become hot topics at the US Open

PUBLISHED Sep 4, 2026, 4:25 PM ET

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The presence of influencers and tennis etiquette become hot topics at the US Open

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 28

Left 11%

Center 82%

Right 7%

Sources: 28

Influencers and content creators are drawing attention at the 2026 U.S. Open after spectators disrupted play during matches in New York. The U.S. Tennis Association issued nearly 100 creator credentials this year, up from 54 in 2025, as it seeks to reach new audiences. During Naomi Osaka’s first-round victory over Anastasia Zakharova on Aug. 31, chair umpire Kader Nouni reprimanded people in a suite for filming during a point. Social-media footage showed bright lighting used during play. Osaka said creators could help grow tennis but should understand its rules and etiquette. Coco Gauff supported attracting new audiences while urging newcomers to follow match protocols. Jessica Pegula said content creation becomes problematic when it distracts players. The tournament has added messages asking spectators to avoid flash photography and other lighting. Reporting also indicates the most-publicized disruptive group was not necessarily part of the official creator program, complicating broader claims about influencers.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On 1997, Arthur Ashe Stadium opened as the Open's centerpiece.
On 2025, USTA credentialed 54 creators for its inaugural program.
On Aug. 31, 2026, Osaka's first-round match faced suite disruption.
On Aug. 31, Osaka defeated Zakharova in her opening match.
On Sept. 2, 2026, videos showed lighting during active play.
On Sept. 3, USTA added warnings against flash photography use.
On Sept. 3, Osaka defeated Siniakova, reaching the third round.
On Sept. 3, ABC reported renewed concerns over spectator etiquette.
On Sept. 4, Reuters documented the rapidly expanding creator presence.
On Sept. 4, AP reported etiquette concerns at Flushing Meadows.
Over coming days, organizers are likely to reinforce spectator behavior guidelines.
Over coming months, creator programs may expand alongside etiquette policies.
Over coming years, tennis may increasingly integrate creators into fan engagement.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Players and fans face heightened distractions as organizers tighten etiquette.
Possible long-term US impact: Tennis may broaden audiences while balancing creator engagement against etiquette.
Most affected groups: Players, spectators, creators, brands, sponsors, and tournament organizers face competing priorities.
Reader priority: Readers should prioritize verified tournament statements, player comments, and footage.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 28
Right Leaning:: 2
Left Leaning:: 3
Neutral:: 23

Explain Framing

Left: Coverage emphasizes access, inclusion, creator culture, and changing tennis demographics. Center: Coverage emphasizes disruptions, player reactions, USTA responses, and competing interests. Right: Coverage emphasizes etiquette, commercialization, and distractions threatening traditional tennis culture.