US Open players bothered by marijuana aroma from nearby park
British tennis players at the US Open have complained about the smell of marijuana wafting from Corona Park onto the practice courts. Katie Boulter said she has experienced it during matches and finds it distracting, while Harriet Dart noted it's part of New York.
The aroma issue stems from Corona Park, which sits adjacent to the US Open's outer practice courts in Flushing Meadows. While New York state permits adult marijuana use, the USTA prohibits smoking on its grounds, yet cannot regulate activity in the surrounding public park. British players Katie Boulter, Fran Jones, and Harriet Dart all acknowledged encountering the smell during play, with Boulter noting it disrupted her concentration during a match.
The USTA responded that it remains vigilant despite lacking control over off-site activity. Dart framed the situation as simply part of the New York environment, suggesting players accept it as a local condition. Jones joked about the aroma last year, though she indicated a more serious approach this tournament.
This story highlights how legalized substances can intrude into professional sports environments, creating unexpected challenges for athletes and organizers. Players competing for significant prize money may find their focus tested by factors beyond their control, which could affect performance outcomes. The incident may also reflect broader societal adjustments as jurisdictions with legal marijuana navigate coexistence with traditional institutions, potentially prompting venues to reconsider location choices or mitigation strategies.