Wimbledon warns influencers over US Open-style disruptions

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 8 Oct, 18:13 · Archive

Wimbledon's chief says the tournament's military-trained security will prevent influencer disruptions that plagued the US Open.

Wimbledon's interim chief executive Richard Atkinson has warned influencers that they will face consequences if they disrupt the 2027 Championships, following disruptions at the US Open last month. The US Open, which accredited 100 influencers this year—twice as many as the previous year—saw several matches interrupted when guests used ring lights to film social media content during play. Player Coco Gauff criticised the conduct as a disregard for tennis etiquette.

Atkinson said Wimbledon's approach would be markedly different. Speaking at Leaders Week London conference at Stamford Bridge, he indicated that the tournament's military-trained security—which includes Royal Marines Commandos—would take swift action against any influencer misconduct. 'If you try to do that at Wimbledon, I think you'd probably have some Royal Marines Commando stopping you,' Atkinson said.

Wimbledon does not accredit influencers directly but permits them as guests of partner brands such as Ralph Lauren. Atkinson acknowledged that influencers are important for growing the sport globally but insisted they must operate within the tournament's traditions and protocols. He said: 'Clearly influencers are a crucial part of building your brand around the world in the third decade of the 21st century. What you have to do is keep them under control.'

How it is being reported

• Wimbledon chief backs military-trained security to 'sort out' influencers that plagued US OpenWimbledon have warned influencers that they risk agitating the military if they misbehave at the Championships after indecorous conduct at the US Open.Daily Mail Sport · 8 Oct, 17:54
• Wimbledon's military security would 'love to sort out influencers' after US Open anticsA talking point throughout the US Open was the frequent interruptions caused by influencers, and Wimbledon's chief is adamant that there will be no repeat when the championship comes round next summerMirror Sport · 8 Oct, 17:37

In this story: Wimbledon · US Open · Richard Atkinson · Coco Gauff · All England Lawn Tennis Club · Flushing Meadows

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