US Open Players Raise Concerns Over Cannabis Smell at New York Courts

Casper Ruud, the Norwegian tennis star competing at the 2025 US Open, has expressed frustration over the pervasive smell of cannabis around the tournament courts in New York. Despite smoking being banned at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, the legalization of recreational cannabis in New York State since 2021 has led to the smell drifting in from nearby public areas, such as Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Ruud described the odor as his least favorite aspect of playing in New York, finding it distracting and annoying during matches. Other players, including Maria Sakkari, have previously voiced similar complaints about the cannabis smell affecting their concentration on court. Tournament and local authorities maintain that smoking is prohibited inside the venue, but the lingering scent remains a nuisance, and Ruud doubts any change in the law will occur soon. The issue has sparked mixed reactions from fans and players alike, with some questioning the extent of the smell's impact.