After the US Open fiasco, Wimbledon is likely to crack down on content creators
Wimbledon could take a tougher stance on influencers and content creators after a string of suspensions at the US Open. The incidents raised concerns among players about the changing atmosphere at major tennis tournaments.
According to the Press Association, the All England Club is not expected to introduce a separate accreditation category for influencers or content creators. Wimbledon is also likely to take a strict approach to things like ring lights and other equipment that could disrupt matches.
WHY DOES WIMBLEDON BAN INFLUENCERS?
The potential crackdown comes after several incidents at this year’s US Open where players complained about spectators using bright lights, talking loudly and filming content during points.
The New York Grand Slam is making a conscious effort to bring new audiences to tennis, including the official accreditation of around 100 content creators alongside traditional journalists and broadcasters. However, the experiment also highlighted the difficulty of balancing social media engagement with the etiquette expected at a major tennis tournament.
US OPEN: COCO GAUFF HOT
Coco Gauff, one of the biggest stars of the women’s game, has argued that certain behavior of influencers needs to change.
“I think it’s great to have a different demographic than the sport,” Gauff said after her second-round win over Paula Bados on Sept. 3. “I have no problem with influencers. I have met some and follow some online.”
However, Gauff stressed that anyone participating in a tennis match must understand the environment they are entering.
“Any place you go, you have to follow that etiquette,” she said, suggesting that brands hosting tournaments could do more to make first-time viewers aware of the rules.
For Gauff, the biggest problem is not necessarily the arrival of the influencers themselves, but the behavior of those who do not know tennis etiquette.
“I definitely think no flash photography because it bothers (me). I’m one of the forgiving players,” she said. “Try not to talk too loud. I mean, Ashe’s a very loud court, so I’m used to it, but definitely not like I’m slapping TikToks and stuff in the middle of things.”
Gauff also explained why flashes are particularly problematic for players.
“It’s not just for other players, but for the viewing experience for others,” she said. “If I had to choose noise over flash, I definitely think no flash because it actually disturbs us a bit.
Complaints about the US Open went beyond influencer activities. Players also raised concerns about the overall atmosphere at Flushing Meadows, where music, movement in the stands and noise from spectators can make games especially rowdy.
‘US OPEN, CHANGING AT THE ZOO’
French veteran Adrian Mannarino was the latest player to express his frustration, pointing to spectators moving around during points, as well as noise and the smell of marijuana around the outdoor courts.
“People can move in the crowd during points,” Mannarino said. “The tournament is putting up with it and I don’t know if it’s the best thing for tennis in general.”
“There’s a smell of marijuana on the field, noise everywhere. The truth is, it’s turning into a bit of a zoo.”
Wimbledon has traditionally had a very different atmosphere to the US Open, stricter expectations for spectator behavior and match presentation.
The All England Club annually reviews its policies, including access to social media. Its terms of entry already ban items that could disrupt gameplay, meaning the content creation facility could face restrictions even without specific policies for influencers.
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Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
07 Sep 2026 10:16 IST