Wimbledon could tighten its rules around influencers and content creators following a string of disruptions at the US Open that have frustrated players and sparked debate over the atmosphere at major tennis tournaments. According to the Press Association, the All England Club is not expected to create a separate accreditation category for influencers. It is also likely to take a firm line on equipment such as ring lights and other items that could distract players or interfere with matches.
Wimbledon Tightens Influencer Rules After Chaotic Scenes at US Open
Wimbledon is preparing to take a stricter approach to influencers and content creators after a series of disruptions at this year’s US Open raised concerns over spectator behaviour. The All England Club is not expected to introduce a dedicated accreditation category for influencers, while equipment such as ring lights could be confiscated if it is considered capable of interfering with matches.
The US Open has attracted a growing number of social media personalities as part of its push to bring new audiences to tennis. Around 100 content creators were officially accredited alongside traditional journalists and broadcasters, but the move has also coincided with complaints about bright lights, excessive noise and people filming content during points. Wimbledon’s existing entry rules already prohibit items that could disrupt play, and those regulations could be applied firmly to content-creation equipment.
Several players have called for better awareness of tennis etiquette among spectators who may be attending major matches for the first time. Coco Gauff has said she has no issue with influencers being around the sport but believes everyone should respect the environment inside a tennis venue. “I think it’s great to have a different demographic to the sport,” Gauff said after her second-round win over Paula Badosa on September 3. “I have no problem with influencers. I’ve met some of them and follow some of them online.”
Gauff stressed that the issue is more about behaviour than the presence of influencers themselves, particularly when filming or photography becomes disruptive during points. “Any venue you come to, you have to follow that etiquette towards it,” she said. “I definitely think no flash photography because that does bother [me]. I am one of the lenient players,” she said. “Try not to talk too loud. I mean, 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 also explained the impact of flashes, saying: “It’s not just for the rest of the players but for the viewing experience for those around,” she said. “If I had to pick noise over flash, I definitely think no flash because that actually does mess us up a little bit.”
Adrian Mannarino Slams US Open Atmosphere as Wimbledon Eyes Stricter Rules
The complaints have not been limited to influencer activity, with the overall atmosphere at Flushing Meadows also drawing criticism. French veteran Adrian Mannarino pointed to spectators moving around during points, persistent noise and the smell of marijuana around the outside courts. “People are allowed to move around in the crowd during points,” Mannarino said. “The tournament puts up with it, and I don’t know if it’s the best thing for tennis in general.” He added: “There’s a smell of marijuana on the court, noise everywhere. The truth is it’s turning into a bit of a zoo.”
Wimbledon has traditionally maintained a quieter and more formal atmosphere than the US Open, with stricter expectations surrounding spectator conduct. The All England Club reviews its policies every year, including its approach to social media, meaning its stance could evolve further. For now, the tournament appears keen to prevent the kind of distractions seen in New York, particularly if influencer activity threatens to affect players or interrupt the flow of matches.
