Tennis News: Influencers are now increasingly dominating the US Open and not everyone likes it. The host tennis player, Jessica Pegula, also spoke about this matter.
As the access given to content creators at Flushing Meadows, New York continues to expand, their behavior during matches is raising serious questions about whether attention on social media is now considered more important than tennis etiquette. But Pegula and Daniil Medvedev have opposing views on this debate.
“In my opinion, what should be appreciated is the presence of influencers who show experiences at the US Open, from food and drink choices, various activities, to shopping areas. This is part of the experience for fans that many people may not know about and this can pique their interest in coming,” said Pegula.
“But in my opinion, it feels uncomfortable to see videos like that — when people are busy taking photos and using selfie lights — while there are tennis players who are struggling on the court, that’s their career and their job, so it feels a bit disrespectful.”
The US tennis player’s opinion is correct. The USTA has invited influencers from various fields — from fashion to lifestyle to culinary, not just sports — who helped turn the US Open into a social media phenomenon. Honey Deuce is the most obvious example of this.
The flagship cocktail, which is often showcased online as a status symbol, sold more than 740,000 units last season.
However, the behavior of the influencers drew sharp criticism during the first round match between Naomi Osaka and Anastasia Zakharova at Arthur Ashe Stadium. A group of people were seen taking photos using ring lights in the middle of the match, forcing the chair referee to stop the match and reprimand the disturbance.
Despite the criticism, the US Open’s decision to increasingly involve influencers can be easily understood. The 54 external content creators who were accredited last season generated more than five million interactions on social media, while the tournament attracted a record audience of 1.14 million people. Daniil Medvedev also highlighted the benefits, arguing that the positive impact of involving more influencers far outweighs the negative.
“It’s very easy. The more we try to increase public awareness about tennis, the better the impact. Of course, the more popular this sport is, there is also an uncomfortable side. Maybe more people will recognize you on the street and going to a restaurant will become more difficult. However, in general, the more this sport develops, the better it is,” explained Medvedev.
“I trust the steps the USTA is taking. If there is something disturbing during the match — for example you see a flashlight or something like that — you can always bring it to the attention of the referee.”
While Pegula and Medvedev generally welcomed the presence of influencers, the US Open’s decision to give wider access to content creators was not welcomed by fans.
The frustration is understandable, considering that casual viewers have to deal with ticket prices that exceed $300, while influencers get special access. However, given that influencers are able to attract attention and generate revenue, it is unlikely that the USTA will abandon that strategy any time soon.
Article Tags: us open, jessica pegula, daniil medvedev
Published by Ligaolahraga.com at https://www.ligaolahraga.com/tenis/jessica-pegula-angkat-cepat-cepat-fenomena-influencer-di-us-open