ESPN viewers criticize tennis coverage choices during US Open matches

Viewers expressed frustration with ESPN on September 7 during the 2026 US Open after the network maintained coverage of a Coco Gauff post-match interview instead of switching to a live fifth-set battle between Learner Tien and Karen Khachanov. Gauff finished her match against Iva Jovic 6-1, 6-4 at roughly 8:48 p.m. ET, while Tien and Khachanov remained on court until approximately 9:45 p.m. ET. The match between Tien and Khachanov ultimately concluded with a 7-5, 4-6, 6-7(6), 6-1, 6-4 victory for Khachanov after three hours and 50 minutes of play. Fans highlighted the decision as a recurring issue, pointing to previous instances where coverage moved away from ongoing matches, including the final US Open appearance of Gael Monfils. The network previously faced scrutiny for its broadcast choices during the tournament, citing the high viewership numbers associated with stars like Gauff as a factor in its programming decisions.

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