As the US Open begins at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York, several British players have expressed concerns over the pervasive scent of marijuana near the courts. Although recreational cannabis use is legal for adults in New York, smoking remains prohibited on tournament grounds. Nonetheless, the aroma occasionally drifts in from the adjacent Corona Park, located near some of the outdoor courts.

British number one Katie Boulter acknowledged the presence of the smell during practice and matches. “I’ve played on one before and I did smell it during my match,” she said. Boulter noted that the distraction could affect concentration during play, stating, “I’m trying to focus and then obviously, it takes you out of the moment and you really don’t want to. You don’t need distractions. So yeah, I wasn’t a huge fan of it.”

The United States Tennis Association (USTA), which operates the venue, responded by emphasizing the challenges of controlling activities beyond the tournament’s perimeter. In a statement, the USTA said it remains vigilant in maintaining the grounds but cannot regulate what occurs off-site, including in nearby public spaces.

While marijuana is legally available in New York State, the USTA continues to enforce restrictions on its use within the tennis center, aiming to preserve a professional and distraction-free environment for players, officials, and fans. Despite these efforts, the proximity of public parks where cannabis use is permitted creates an unusual context for players accustomed to different environments.

As the tournament progresses, the issue highlights the broader complexities of hosting major sporting events in locations where local laws may differ markedly from the policy standards of the event organizers and participants.