The US Open 2026 has sparked a lively discussion about etiquette in tennis, particularly with the increased presence of influencers and content creators at the tournament. Around 100 influencers received accreditation this year, doubling last year's number, raising questions on how to attract new audiences while maintaining traditional tennis decorum.

Coco Gauff, currently ranked world number four, acknowledged the benefits of reaching a new demographic but emphasized the importance of respecting the sport's etiquette. She stated, "If you're being invited to a red carpet, you wouldn't show up in jeans. I think it's just follow the etiquette of the sport. That's all."

During Naomi Osaka's first-round match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, a group of influencers conducted a photo shoot amidst the game, even using a portable ring light while she served. This incident prompted the chair umpire to issue multiple reminders for silence during the match.

Osaka remarked, "Today the umpire told everyone to be quiet more than I've ever heard an umpire tell a crowd to be quiet. I think it bothered my opponent, too." She further expressed the need for attendees to respect the sport, saying, "I feel like it's common courtesy to read up on the sport, especially the etiquette."

While some players, like Daniil Medvedev, view the influx of new fans positively, believing it can enhance the sport's popularity, others, including Frances Tiafoe, appreciate the diversity of the crowd. Tiafoe noted, "I think the Open is great because you get all types of people that want to come and watch tennis. Personally, I love that."

The challenge remains to balance the excitement of a growing audience with the traditional values of tennis, ensuring that all fans understand the etiquette that accompanies the sport.