The U.S. Open has been buzzing this year, but not just for the tennis. A parade of influencers has turned the stands into a backdrop for photoshoots, drawing the ire of fans and even interrupting matches. Yet amid the chaos, Coco Gauff is offering a surprisingly chill perspective.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, the American star said she's not bothered by the influencer presence. In fact, she sees it as a win for the sport. "I think it's great to have a different demographic to the sport. I have no problem with influencers. I've met some of them and follow some of them online," Gauff said, via the New York Post. "Luckily, the ones I do follow online do follow the etiquette and know tennis pretty well."
Gauff's stance contrasts sharply with the growing backlash. The tournament has seen multiple incidents, including an umpire halting a match between Naomi Osaka and Anastasia Zakharova because a group was filming in a suite. Another group was caught using a bright ring light during play, and two influencers were ejected after flashing their credentials online. The credential incident went viral, adding fuel to the fire.
But Gauff believes the solution isn't to ban influencers—it's to educate them. "Any venue you come to, you have to follow the etiquette toward it. And I definitely think it may be on some of the brands, too, maybe to have a sign plastered or something in the suite—so they know, because, you know, sometimes, it's their first tennis match. They don't know. They've probably been to basketball games before," she explained.
The 22-year-old did draw a firm line on one thing: flash photography. "I definitely think no flash photography because that does bother [me]. And I am one of the more lenient players. There's very few times you hear me complain about noise. But the flash, definitely. No flash in the points. Try not to talk too loud. Ashe is a very loud court, so I'm used to it, but definitely not like mouthing TikToks and stuff in the middle of a point," she said.
Gauff also stressed that respect for the game extends beyond the players. "I think it's not just for the players, but for the viewing experience, for those around," she noted. She compared it to dressing for a red carpet—you wouldn't show up in jeans. "I think it's just follow the etiquette of the sport. That's all."
The debate has sparked calls for stricter rules, with some demanding a ban on disruptive influencers. Fans have also vented frustration over Arthur Ashe Stadium turning into a TikTok studio. But Gauff's inclusive approach offers a middle ground: welcome the new audience, but set clear boundaries.
Her perspective is refreshing in a sport often seen as exclusive. By embracing influencers while insisting on basic decorum, Gauff is helping tennis evolve without losing its soul. As she put it, "I definitely think it's cool to have a new demographic, and I definitely think it helps grow the sport."
Whether the USTA will take her advice—perhaps with more visible signage or pre-match briefings—remains to be seen. But one thing's clear: Gauff is ready to share her court, as long as the flash stays off.
