Naomi Osaka Calls Out Disruptive US Open Influencers, Demands 'Respect for the Game'
Naomi Osaka, 28, has spoken out against disruptive social media influencers at the 2026 US Open, urging them to 'respect the sport's etiquette' after incidents in her first and second-round matches against Anastasia Zakharova and Katerina Siniakova.
Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has publicly called for enhanced management of social media influencers attending the 2026 US Open, emphasizing the critical need to 'respect the sport' amidst a noticeable rise in disruptive behavior. The Japanese star's remarks come after incidents during both her first and second-round matches at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows. Nick Kyrgios Cleared for Immediate Tennis Return as ITIA Cuts Cocaine Ban to One Month.
Naomi Osaka Speaks Out
Naomi Osaka speaks out about influencers interrupting the U.S. Open game to film Instagram videos.
“Obviously if you come to a sporting event you have to respect the sport. I feel like it’s common courtesy to read up on the sport, especially the etiquette.” pic.twitter.com/jINRqBuB2L
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) September 4, 2026
Osaka, currently the No. 13 seed, acknowledged the potential for influencers to broaden tennis's appeal but stressed that this should not come at the expense of established rules and etiquette. "If you come to a sporting event, you have to respect the sport. I feel like it's common courtesy to read up on the sport. Especially the etiquette," the 28-year-old stated after her second-round victory.
Disruptions on Court
The issue first gained prominence during Osaka's opening-round clash against Anastasia Zakharova on August 31, 2026. During the second set of that match, which Osaka won 7-6(6), 7-6(3), play was briefly halted due to loud noises and bright ring lights emanating from a hospitality suite, where influencers were reportedly conducting impromptu photoshoots. Videos of the disturbance quickly circulated online, sparking debate among fans and pundits alike.
The disruptions continued into her second-round encounter on September 3, 2026, where Osaka defeated Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 5-7, 6-1 to advance to the third round. This time, the chair umpire was compelled to issue a stronger-than-usual request for quiet from the spectators. "Today the chair umpire asked the crowd to be quiet. It was stronger language than any request I have heard from an umpire so far," Osaka recounted. While acknowledging the positive aspects of expanding the sport's audience, she reiterated, "It could be a good thing for people to make the sport of tennis popular to their specific audience. But I think it has to be managed a lot better". US Open 2026: Aryna Sabalenka Hits Back at Reporter With ‘A Joke’ Remark in Fiery Presser.
USTA's Outreach and Fan Movement Policy
The US Open organizing committee, the USTA, has actively sought to attract new generations of fans by inviting approximately 100 social media influencers and granting them access credentials to the tournament. These influencers often document their experience, showcasing stadium facilities, food, and the tournament's signature "honey deuce" cocktail, sharing content across platforms like YouTube and social media.
Critics suggest that a 2024 policy change, which allows fans to access their seats after each game rather than only during changeovers and set breaks, may exacerbate the problem by creating more opportunities for movement and noise during active play. Fan Hands Jasmine Paolini USD 2 Dollar 'Good Luck' Note at US Open 2026, Video Goes Viral.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Tournament | 2026 US Open (146th edition, Grand Slam) |
| Venue | USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, New York City (Arthur Ashe Stadium) |
| Dates | August 23 – September 13, 2026 (Main draw singles: August 30 – September 13) |
| Player | Naomi Osaka (28, Japan) |
| Concern | Disruptive behavior by social media influencers, including loud noises, ring lights, and photoshoots during active play |
| Osaka's Stance | Acknowledges benefits of audience growth but insists on respect for tennis etiquette and better management of influencer access |
| Matches Affected | First Round (vs. Anastasia Zakharova, August 31; Osaka won 7-6(6), 7-6(3)); Second Round (vs. Katerina Siniakova, September 3; Osaka won 6-2, 5-7, 6-1) |
Osaka's comments underscore a delicate balance for major sporting events: embracing new media and audiences while preserving the integrity and atmosphere of the competition. As the US Open progresses, the debate over how best to manage the increasing intersection of sports and digital content creation is likely to continue.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 04, 2026 09:39 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
