The US Open faced backlash after videos went viral showing spectators using ring lights and recording themselves during Naomi Osaka's first-round match. Fans and media criticized the lack of etiquette, with headlines calling it a 'zoo' and blaming influencers. Osaka emphasized the need to respect tennis traditions and improve how the sport is presented to audiences.

The USTA credentialed roughly 100 content creators this year, up from 54 in 2025, including independent creators like Christian Basnight of 'Christian's Court.' Basnight, with over six million social media views monthly, focuses on expanding tennis viewership through behind-the-scenes coverage. He distinguishes between uncredentialed fans and approved creators, noting formal guidelines govern the latter's access. The controversy highlights tensions between traditional tennis etiquette and modern social media engagement strategies.