Carlos Alcaraz has joined Coco Gauff and other players in raising concerns about excessive camera access on the tennis tour. Speaking at the Monte Carlo Masters, the Spaniard highlighted the lack of private spaces amid growing broadcasting demands. Players argue that constant surveillance invades personal moments, while tournaments prioritize revenue.
Carlos Alcaraz expressed discomfort with the intensifying camera presence behind the scenes at tournaments. In comments to Punto de Break at the Monte Carlo Masters, he noted, “For the fans, it’s great... But for the players it’s a bit strange, because we no longer have anywhere to relax.” He specifically criticized cameras zooming in on players' phones, calling it excessive and urging spaces free from filming. “We already don’t have much privacy in tournaments, and I think this is too much,” Alcaraz said. The issue gained prominence after Coco Gauff smashed her racket in a corridor at Rod Laver Arena following her Australian Open quarterfinal loss to Elina Svitolina. Gauff had sought a camera-free area, stating, “I tried to go somewhere where there are no cameras.” Other players echoed these sentiments. Jessica Pegula said she dislikes feeling constantly filmed, even noting instances of fans zooming in on phones online. Amanda Anisimova pointed out that while some behind-the-scenes moments entertain fans, capturing losses like Gauff's feels invasive. Novak Djokovic remarked sarcastically that surveillance might extend further, joking about the absence of shower cameras. In response to the Australian Open backlash, the ATX Open introduced a camera-free “Rage Room,” which Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka supported. However, Wimbledon has decided against altering its camera setup, as reported by Tom Kershaw in The London Times, despite the growing player concerns.
