Wimbledon has decided it will no longer grant media credentials to internet influencers, following disruptive incidents involving content creators at this year’s U.S. Open.
The move by the All England Club follows several episodes at the U.S. Open in which influencers were accused of interrupting play and irritating fellow spectators. In one instance, a chair umpire halted a match so security could order an influencer to switch off a bright ring light being used to film a video. Video of another group showed influencers loudly filming in the stands, drawing complaints from nearby fans.
The number of influencers credentialed at the U.S. Open jumped from 54 content providers in 2025 to more than 100 this year, according to earlier Breitbart Sports reporting.
Wimbledon organisers are taking a different approach. According to ESPN, no influencers will be issued media credentials, and none will be permitted to record video at the tournament. The All England Club is also going further by confiscating filming equipment, including ring lights, from ticket holders before they enter the arena.
Players react
Several top players have criticised the disruptions caused by content creators at recent events. U.S. player Jessica Pegula said influencers can play a useful role in promoting tennis but should not interfere with matches.
“I do think that it’s tough when you see videos like that when they’re taking pictures and using the selfie lights,” Pegula said. “People are down there trying to perform, and it’s their career and their job. It seems like a bit disrespectful. I think it’s gotten a little, maybe too much; it feels like this year. I don’t know.”
“I can appreciate one side of it, but I think when you have the other side literally interrupting matches, it gets a little tough,” Pegula added.
Players Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka have also spoken out against the video makers, urging them to respect the traditional decorum expected at tennis events.
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