Australian Open CEO Craig Tiley has assured players that their concerns over behind-the-scenes cameras at the tournament are being taken seriously.
Speaking with Tennis Channel Live on Thursday, Tiley addressed recent criticism over cameras filming player areas, including after Coco Gauff’s quarterfinal loss to Elina Svitolina. Gauff, frustrated that footage of her breaking a racquet privately was broadcast, sparked renewed debate over the cameras. Fellow players, including Novak Djokovic, Jessica Pegula, and Iga Swiatek, also expressed concern about player privacy, with Swiatek noting that being filmed in moments like forgetting her credential made her feel like players were treated like "animals at the zoo."
Tiley emphasized the challenge of balancing player privacy with fan engagement and tournament promotion. He stressed that Tennis Australia is open to feedback. "We want to listen to the players and understand their needs," he said. "We have heard you, and we will make any adjustments necessary. We will continue to review this to make sure players are comfortable while still connecting fans to the athletes."
The WTA has also backed calls for change. Chairperson Valerie Camillo called the players’ concerns "completely valid," noting that athletes deserve spaces to recover without constant scrutiny. The WTA has already reduced the number of cameras in off-court areas at its tournaments and encouraged other events and broadcasters to adopt similar boundaries.
"This is a very human and fair request," Camillo said. "Providing private spaces is part of our responsibility as a sport. The WTA is committed to listening to its players and taking action on concerns like this."
The discussion highlights a growing push to balance transparency and fan engagement with the privacy and well-being of players, especially in high-profile tournaments like the Australian Open.
