Naomi Osaka and Coco Gauff Share Advice for U.S. Open Newcomers— Plus 13 Things to Know Before You Go
The 2026 U.S. Open has a new audience — and apparently, not everyone knows the rules. As celebrities, influencers and first-time tennis fans descend on Flushing Meadows’ USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, some spectators have gone viral for disruptive behavior, from using ring lights in the stands to talking too loudly during play.
Because we love you, we have to let you know: word on the street is, the world class event turned into an “influencer circus.” Chatter about some unconventional behavior was so loud, even tennis superstars Naomi Osaka and Coco Gauff have weighed in.
While they’re excited to grow the sport, they’re reminding newcomers that enjoying the U.S. Open comes with a little more etiquette than other sporting events. Sip your signature Honey Deuce cocktail with your pinky out, serve a look and capture the moment — but you must respect the sport.
So, whether you’re a seasoned tennis fan or this is your first time stepping onto the grounds, we’ve gathered 13 dos and don’ts to help you enjoy the U.S. Open without becoming that fan.
Coco Gauff: You Must “Follow the Etiquette”
“If you were invited to the red carpet, you wouldn’t show up in jeans,” said two-time major champion Coco Gauff. While she’s excited to see a “different demographic” at the U.S. Open, she urged new fans to respect tennis etiquette.
“Try not to talk too loud,” she suggested, after expressing that she’s one of the more lenient athletes. “If I had to pick noise over flash… no flash,” she said. “That actually does mess us up a little bit.”
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Naomi Osaka: “It’s Common Courtesy to Read Up on the Sport”
Gauff wasn’t the only one to admit that the behavior this year was a bit off. Four-time Grand Slam champ Naomi Osaka also stated that it’s important to respect the sport and inform yourself on what’s expected of attendees.
“It’s common courtesy to read up on the sport. Especially the etiquette,” Osaka said. While she’s excited for the sport’s growth, she also stated that the game should be “managed a lot better,” but added that overall, there’s huge positives to a growing audience.
DO: Learn the Rhythm of the Game
@jeanne_marchi I’ve never seen this at a tennis tournament before
All the videos I’m showing you here were filmed during play It must be really distracting for the players
You don’t need to become a tennis expert overnight, but knowing the basics — like when a point starts and ends, what a changeover is and when players switch sides — will make for a much better spectator experience. As Naomi Osaka reiterated, it’s simply “common courtesy” to inform yourself on the expectations of the event, “especially the etiquette.”
DON’T: Walk Around During a Point
@leahmichelley and wasn’t sold as an obstructed view.. people walked back and forth during every point @ticketmaster #usopen #nyc #ticketmaster #tennis #usopen2026
Need to grab a drink, use the bathroom or find your seat? Try to time it around a changeover or between sets. Getting up and moving through the stands while players are actively competing can distract them, particularly if you’re in their line of sight.
DO: Cheer When the Point is Over
The U.S. Open isn’t exactly known for a quiet crowd, so don’t be afraid to get excited. Just save the screaming, clapping and celebrations for after the point has ended. During the rally, let the players play. And while our fave Coco Gauff mentioned a camera flash is probably worse, she also isn’t a big fan of folks talking too loudly.
DON’T: Celebrate Your Opponent’s Mistake
While sports fans are used to banter, tennis etiquette draws a stricter line. There is a difference between celebrating your player’s win and cheering an opponent’s double fault or unforced error. Applauding great tennis — regardless of who hits the shot — remains good form.
DO: Turn Off Your Flash
Yes, you can take pictures. No, you shouldn’t illuminate the court while doing it. Flash photography and bright lights can distract players, so keep those settings off during play. Also, be mindful when photo taking. The last thing you’d want in a moment of silence is to hear the shutter of your iPhone camera.
DON’T: Bring a Ring Light
A tennis game featuring Osaka came to a screeching halt Monday, August 31, when the chair umpire paused the match after content creators in a luxury suite used portable ring lights to film during a play.
Tournament referee Jake Garner said that although they want everyone to have a good time, they must ensure athletes are playing “under the best possible conditions.” Leave the ring light at home.
DO: Keep Your Phone on Silent
@everyonewatcheswsports AND WE’RE LIVE @US Open
A surprise FaceTime ringtone, alarm or notification is the last thing a player — or the thousands of people around you — needs during a match. Put your phone on silent before the action begins, and keep your content creation as unobtrusive as possible.
DON’T: Record Videos During Play
We know you want the content, but try not to turn the match into your personal production set. Recording a quick clip is one thing, but filming throughout active play can distract players and fellow spectators. As you may have seen, videos of this behavior is making waves online, and the reactions are less than favorable.
DO: Find a Cute Outfit That Matches the U.S. Open Aesthetic
@dailuxestyles Court-side, but make it fashion.
Looks worthy of the US Open in NYC. Which one are you wearing?
#usopen #style #tennis #fashiontiktok #nyc
Think tennis-inspired, polished and comfortable. I mean the outdoor stadium is just swimming with Ralph Lauren, smart snapback hats, pleated skirts, and knits around the shoulder. Whether you’re going full country-club chic or keeping it casual, the U.S. Open is a great excuse to have a little fun with your fit.
DON’T: Wear Overly Revealing Outfits
@haddyjay_ U.S. Open outfit
There’s no formal dress code, but remember: You’re at a traditional sporting event. Keep the look cute, comfortable and appropriate for a day spent in the stands. A little skin is fine, but save the barely-there looks for another occasion.
DO: Look Good, Feel Good and Enjoy the Experience
@cocobassey many thoughts on this week’s rounds of influencer discourse
i’ve been at the #USOpen for the past 5yrs and i’m always grateful for every opportunity, appreciative of our incredible brand partners, and most importantly, respectful of the amazing athletes who are giving it their all on the courts
#TikTokCreatorSearchInsightsIncentive
Come dressed for the occasion, grab a Honey Deuce, mingle with the regulars and soak it all in. Just remember, the U.S. Open is a sporting event first, so knowing what’s expected of you as a spectator will make the experience better for everyone involved — including you.
