Tennis players competing at the US Open in New York are once again encountering the lingering scent of cannabis around the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, raising concerns about potential distractions during matches. The aroma frequently drifts from nearby Corona Park, where recreational and medicinal cannabis use is legal for adults aged 21 and over under New York State law.

While smoking is prohibited within the tennis complex, the proximity of the park—home to several practice courts—means that the smell of cannabis sometimes permeates the air during play. This issue has drawn mixed reactions from players ahead of the tournament, which commenced on August 30.

British No. 1 Katie Boulter expressed frustration with the odor, saying it can disrupt concentration. “I’m not a huge fan of it. I know a lot of players have complained on some of the specific courts,” she remarked, noting the difficulty of maintaining focus amid such distractions. Similarly, Harriet Dart, another British qualifier, acknowledged the widespread presence of the smell in New York but took a more resigned view, stating it is simply part of the city’s environment.

Others have taken a lighter approach. Francesca Jones, also from Britain, recalled last year’s experience with a sense of humor despite calling the smell “really bad.” She said the closeness of Court 17 to Corona Park—nicknamed “hash court” by some Danish reporters—made for a distinctive environment. Jones highlighted that living in Barcelona, where cannabis is also commonly detected, helped her adjust. “It doesn’t bother me,” she explained, adding that occasional distractions were outweighed by the focus required during play.

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) reiterated its commitment to maintaining a smoke-free venue and enforcing no-smoking policies within the grounds. A spokesperson emphasized collaboration with the New York Police Department and the Parks Department to help reduce smoking near the fence line that separates the tennis center from the surrounding parkland. However, they acknowledged the organization's limited ability to regulate activities occurring just outside the property lines.

This issue is not new to the US Open; past players including Martina Hingis, Nick Kyrgios, and Maria Sakkari have previously voiced concerns about the smell interfering with their matches. The combination of legalized cannabis use in the city and the open layout of the tournament facility continues to present a unique challenge for organizers and players alike. As the event progresses, the balance between enforcement and respect for local laws remains a point of attention for the tennis community.