Full Breakdown
British Players Decry Cannabis Odor on US Open Courts
8/30/2026, 11:22:00 AM
The Issue on the Practice Courts
At the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, the aroma of cannabis has been reported drifting from the nearby Corona Park onto several outdoor practice courts. Marijuana is legal for adults in New York, though smoking is prohibited on the tournament grounds. The scent has been noted by multiple competitors as a recurring distraction during warm-ups and matches.
Player Reactions
Fellow Briton Fran Jones recalled joking with a spectator about the odor in a previous US Open appearance and indicated that the smell can affect performance. Qualifier Harriet Dart described the pervasive presence of the scent across the venue, noting that “it is what it is” for everyone on site. Their comments echo earlier complaints from other top players who have cited the same issue in prior years.
USTA Response
The organization emphasized its partnership with local police and the parks department to enforce the ban on smoking within the venue’s boundaries.
Why It Matters for Competition
Players rely on a controlled environment to execute precise shots and sustain mental concentration. An unexpected odor can divert attention, potentially influencing match outcomes, especially in tightly contested sets where focus is paramount. The complaints highlight a tension between New York’s broader legalization policies and the tournament’s effort to preserve a distraction-free playing field.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm not a huge fan of it,” — Extended Reactions Katie Boulter — Katie Boulter, British number one
- “Yeah, I have experienced it. You go down to the practice courts and down in the park courts, you do smell it a lot.” — Katie Boulter — Katie Boulter, British number one
These statements capture the players’ personal experiences and the tone of their criticism regarding the cannabis odor at the US Open.
