Influencers are facing backlash at the US Open after their content creation disrupted a tennis match.
The 2026 US Open has embraced social media creators more than ever, but some fans now feel the tournament may have gone too far. A series of viral clips showing influencers filming, using bright lights, and talking loudly during matches has sparked a heated debate over where content creation should end and tennis etiquette should begin.
Influencers Disrupt Naomi Osaka’s US Open Match
The controversy reached a peak during Naomi Osaka’s first-round match against Anastasia Zakharova at Arthur Ashe Stadium. A group of influencers was filmed creating content inside a luxury suite while the match was underway.
In one viral clip, a woman can be seen using a bright ring light to take photos during play. Another video showed several creators recording a video together and speaking loudly enough to disturb spectators below them.
The disruption became so noticeable that chair umpire Kader Nouni briefly stopped play to tell people in the suite to sit down and quiet down. The footage quickly spread across social media, with tennis fans accusing the creators of treating the US Open more like a content set than a sporting event.
Jessica Pegula also weighed in on the controversy. While she understands the value of influencers promoting tennis, she said it becomes difficult when photos and lights distract players who are trying to compete.
US Open’s Influencer Strategy Comes Under Fire
The backlash comes as the US Open has significantly expanded its relationship with content creators. In 2025, the USTA issued 54 media credentials to influencers. This year, that number has risen to nearly 100.
Some influencers at the tournament argue that the criticism is being exaggerated. Justin Morelli, a credentialed creator, believes influencers can help introduce tennis to new audiences, particularly in the United States. However, he also acknowledged that creators should not interfere with matches.
Alyssa La Spisa similarly argued that the problem is not limited to officially credentialed influencers. Brands also invite creators into luxury suites, meaning the tournament's broader influencer culture extends beyond the USTA's credential program.
The US Open has responded by increasing signage and communications reminding spectators not to use flash photography or lighting that could distract players. Tournament officials have also stressed that fans should enjoy the event without interfering with the competition.
With the tournament still underway, the controversy raises a bigger question: Can influencer culture help grow tennis without taking attention away from the sport itself?
What do you think? Should influencers be given more freedom at sporting events, or do they need to follow stricter rules? Let us know in the comments!
