Pro Tennis Players Say Bring On The Influencers

Tennis influencers are increasingly prominent in the sport, with top players dating and partnering with those who have amassed large online followings. The U.S. Open, seen as the influencer's tournament, has seen the USTA "almost double" its content creator program this year, with nearly 100 creators approved before qualifying week.

This increased presence of influencers has brought attention to the sport, with former top player John Isner crediting them for turning the tournament into a "spectacle" and boosting attendance, which increased by 9% in 2025. However, the influx of influencers has also made the sport more expensive, with ticket prices for the US Open averaging $296, up nearly 20% from the previous year.

Tennis players express mixed feelings about the influence of these creators, acknowledging both the positive impact on the sport's visibility and the potential downside of pushing away genuine fans due to higher costs.