The atmosphere at the
Among the most prominent figures is Ayanna Campbell, a 24-year-old guest services representative. Campbell has gained attention for her role as a self-styled hype woman, using call-and-response cheers to energize players as they begin and conclude their practice sessions. Her efforts have resonated deeply with competitors, including
Building Connections Through Cheers and Riddles
Campbell’s signature cheer for Gauff, inspired by the 2000 film Bring It On, involves a rhythmic chant that encourages the crowd to shout “Work!” in response to her prompts. The interaction has become a staple of Gauff’s practice routine, with the tennis star frequently responding with smiles, waves, and social media shoutouts. For Campbell, who works as a special needs bus matron outside of the tournament, the connection is personal. She views Gauff’s success as a source of inspiration for young women, noting that watching the dedication required at the professional level has deepened her own appreciation for the sport.
The support extends beyond vocal encouragement. Sharif Cobb, a US Open supervisor who has worked at the tournament for six years, has developed a playful rapport with Gauff through a series of riddles. What began as a casual interaction has evolved into a recurring game, with Gauff actively seeking out Cobb to test her wits. While Gauff jokingly claimed in an on-court interview that she had struggled to solve his puzzles, Cobb revealed that the star has successfully cracked several of them, even while balancing the physical demands of her tournament schedule.
A Supportive Environment for Elite Athletes
The engagement between staff and players has become a notable feature of this year’s US Open. Campbell has also led cheers for other high-profile athletes, including Carlos Alcaraz and the Williams sisters, with many players reciprocating the energy through dances or gestures of appreciation. These interactions provide a human element to the intense environment of a Grand Slam, offering players a brief, lighthearted reprieve from the pressure of competition.
For staff members like Campbell and Cobb, the opportunity to contribute to the players' experience is a rewarding aspect of their roles. Whether through a well-timed chant or a challenging riddle, these workers are playing an understated but meaningful part in the tournament’s atmosphere, helping to foster a sense of community that stretches from the practice courts to the main stage.
