Naomi Osaka tells influencers to ‘respect’ tennis after match disruption

• Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has urged content creators to “respect” tennis etiquette after influencers using portable lights delayed her US Open match.
• Around 100 influencers were granted accreditation for the tournament as organisers seek to broaden the sport's appeal and increase fan engagement.
• Players including Jessica Pegula and Daniil Medvedev raised concerns that courtside distractions, such as selfie lights during play, disrespect the athletes.
• The US Open and the ATP tour are increasingly leaning on influencers and social media partnerships like TikTok to drive record attendance figures.
• Osaka suggested better management and spectator education are required to ensure new audiences understand the rules while growing the sport.

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How influencers sparked fury at the US Open as ‘tennis etiquette’ broken