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

PUBLISHED Sep 4, 2026, 4:25 PM ET

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

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.