As the US Open unfolds at Flushing Meadows, it is important to highlight the growing concern over partisan home crowd support in tennis. Matches involving American players often see vociferous cheering and, at times, outright booing of their opponents. While support for local players is natural, excessive noise and hostility can frustrate rivals, break their concentration, and even alter the outcome of matches. Such behaviour not only benefits home players disproportionately but also undermines the spirit of fair competition. Tennis has always prided itself on sportsmanship and respect, and the crowd is an integral part of that tradition. When support turns into intimidation, results risk becoming a reflection of unruly behaviour rather than pure ability. A code of conduct for spectators seems essential to preserve fairness and dignity at major tournaments like the US Open. It is worth noting that crowd involvement can be positive. Pole vaulter Armand Duplantis, for instance, urged spectators to clap during his record-breaking 6.29m attempt, and the encouragement inspired him to succeed. Such supportive participation enhances the spectacle without diminishing an opponent. Sadly, in tennis, visiting players—particularly younger ones—often appear helpless against the jeers and insults from sections of the home crowd. After decades of following the sport, I find this increasing partisanship troubling. If unchecked, it risks turning one of the most prestigious tournaments into a contest of crowd influence rather than true sporting merit.
