US Open Faces Surge of Invasive Lanternflies in 29 New York Counties

The US Open tennis tournament is preparing for a potential invasion of spotted lanternflies, an invasive pest known for damaging a variety of plants. These bugs have been spotted in nearly half of New York State’s counties during a hot summer, with Flushing Meadows—the event's venue and the state's fourth-largest public park—expected to be affected. Experts, including Brian Eshenaur from Cornell University and entomologist Kelli Hoover, warn that the lanternflies are spreading rapidly, hitchhiking on transport and becoming highly noticeable during their August mating season. Players such as British stars Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper, who are competing for the $5 million prize, have been advised to report any sightings and stomp on the bugs to help control the population. Authorities emphasize the importance of monitoring and killing the insects to prevent their damaging effects on local plant life. The presence of these pests could impact both players and fans during the tournament.