The U.S. Open has nearly doubled its credentialed content creators to close to 100 for the 2026 tournament, drawing record digital engagement while navigating fan backlash over on-court disruptions and court-side noise during matches at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York.
The tournament brought in close to 100 content creators for the hard court Grand Slam event, building on a 2025 launch that credentialed 54 influencers across verticals like fashion, food, lifestyle, and health. The U.S. Tennis Association introduced the credentialing program to capture diverse audiences, generating more than 5.5 million social engagements during its inaugural year. That digital footprint expanded significantly as owned social interactions climbed from 1 billion to 3.1 billion by the previous tournament, which drew a record 1.14 million attendees.
Expanding Creator Credentials and Digital Strategy at Flushing Meadows
The USTA’s director of media operations, Jeanmarie Daly, explained that the strategy aims to secure the broadest possible spectrum of coverage by recognizing that traditional media and digital creators reach different viewers through distinct channels. The 2026 roster includes returning digital personalities alongside creators operating in tennis-adjacent spaces, plus newly established categories for social media teams from traditional outlets and podcasts like Andy Roddick’s Served.
In addition to independent influencers, the tournament employs 15 to 20 creators who produce content directly for the U.S. Open. Jonathan Zipper, the USTA’s senior director of social media, noted that the organization’s expanded YouTube focus includes a five-episode series titled Rally the Boroughs, which follows enthusiast teams competing across New York City for singles finals tickets.
Behind the Scenes with Credentialed Influencers on the Grounds
For credentialed influencers navigating the grounds in Queens, daily production requires constant adaptation to unpredictable weather and crowded schedules. Justin Morelli, who creates content for The ShotClock alongside producer Nicholas Costello and videographer Juliana Fromigia, faced a rainy and muggy Day 3 that suspended outdoor matches. When bad weather halted play, the team launched an impromptu retail challenge inside the tournament merchandise stores, racing to assemble outfits under a $200 budget before interviewing fans outside Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“Improvising is important, especially when you’re doing IRL stuff.”
Similarly, lifestyle creator Alyssa La Spisa, host of Where Hot Guys Eat IRL
and The Perfect Order
, runs her segments by chance rather than strict scheduling. Accompanied by videographer Kelly Garcia, La Spisa walks the grounds to interview stylish fans about their favorite tournament food and local dining recommendations.
Fan Backlash and Protocol Education Amid Rising Tensions
The influx of influencers has sparked friction on the grounds. Hardcore tennis fans have voiced sharp criticism as some individuals recorded content during active play, deploying ring lights and interrupting matches. Spectators turned to social media to voice their frustration over ticket costs and crowd etiquette.
In response to the backlash, tournament officials clarified that the documented disruptions were not connected to official credential holders. The USTA stated that it has implemented educational measures across the grounds and stadiums to inform new visitors about proper tennis protocols and reduce disruptions during matches.
Related reading
