Professional tennis players are reporting a growing trend of disruptive bettors in the stands at tournaments globally, including major events like the US Open and the Italian Open. These spectators reportedly attempt to influence match outcomes by taunting players.
Jiri Lehecka recounted an incident at a past US Open where a spectator, believed to be a bettor, incessantly taunted him for three sets. Lehecka stated that the individual was trying to influence the match outcome. Similarly, Italian world No 14 Lorenzo Musetti noted that this issue occurs "in every part of the world."
The presence of disruptive bettors is reportedly more noticeable at lower-level World Tennis Tour events due to smaller crowds, but it is also a concern at Grand Slams. While some players, such as Jakub Mensik and Tommy Paul, believe it is a part of professional sport that players must manage, others like Musetti suggest that tennis governing bodies should implement security measures.
The US Open recently partnered with Kalshi, a sports betting and prediction company. Following the announcement, the US Open app sent push notifications for Kalshi-sponsored articles offering match predictions. Currently, there are no specific rules in the ATP, WTA, or Grand Slam rulebooks to address disruptive bettors, with umpires only able to intervene if a spectator becomes abusive.