The US Open is known for its lively atmosphere and celebrity presence, but the growing number of content creators caused problems during Naomi Osaka’s first-round match. The issue became more serious when ring lights, selfie lights, and photoshoots distracted players during matches. Former champion Andy Roddick has now weighed in, calling for tighter restrictions on the use of lights during matches.
Andy Roddick Calls Out Influencers for Disrupting Naomi Osaka’s US Open Match
The incident during four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka’s first-round win over Anastasia Zakharova caused a rift between tennis etiquette and the culture of social media influencing.
The chair umpire had to warn a group in the stands after they filmed a video and spoke loudly into their camera during active play. They also used bright ring lights. In another incident at Arthur Ashe Stadium, a content creator took photos in the aisles while Madison Keys was playing against Alina Korneeva.
The 2003 US Open champion, Roddick, gave a strong response on his “Served with Andy Roddick” podcast, criticizing influencers for using artificial lights during matches.
“Influencers in the wild is the craziest thing… It’s like a full photo shoot. Like, it’s awkward,” Roddick said, while understanding why brands invite creators. But he made his stance clear. “Now, stop the [expletive] ring lights. Just stop the ring lights.”
Roddick also pointed to the strict rules for official broadcasters like ESPN. He noted that ESPN is not allowed to use set lights during active play because they could distract players. “If ESPN can’t use a [expletive] ring light on the terrace desk, you can’t use a ring light either,” the former World No. 1 argued.
From the players’ side, two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka and 2021 champion Daniil Medvedev supported the USTA’s efforts to bring more attention to tennis by giving more space to social media influencers.
Before the tournament, USTA director of media operations Jeanmarie Daly said that nearly 100 content creators received credentials for the 2026 event, almost double the 54 creators credentialed last year.
However, not all players agree. Jessica Pegula, the 2024 runner-up, criticized creators for using selfie lights while players are competing. “People are down there trying to perform, and it’s their career and their job,” Pegula said in her presser. “It seems like a bit disrespectful. I think it’s gotten a little maybe too much.”
Following the controversy, the tournament issued a public notice reminding fans of the photography rules.
“Please refrain from the use of flash photography or other lighting during match play. Thank you and enjoy the tennis!” the sign outside Louis Armstrong Stadium read.
The US Open is bigger this year, with higher ticket prices, record prize money, mixed doubles, and Fan Week. With lively crowds, packed schedules, and major stories like Carlos Alcaraz’s comeback and Alexandra Eala’s rise, the tournament is focused on growing tennis and reaching more fans.
