During the US Open, British tennis player Katie Boulter reported that the smell of cannabis was present on the court, describing it as a distraction during her match. Boulter noted that the scent was noticeable while playing, raising questions about the atmosphere at the Flushing Meadows venue.

While the US Open is held in New York City, where recreational cannabis use is legal, the tournament has faced similar complaints from players in previous years. In 2023, other competitors also mentioned the smell of marijuana drifting onto the outer courts, which are located near public areas of the park. Tournament officials have historically faced challenges in controlling the environment of the outdoor courts due to their proximity to the surrounding public spaces in Queens.

Boulter’s comments highlight an ongoing tension between the public nature of the venue and the requirements for professional athletic concentration. There is currently no official word from tournament organizers regarding new measures to address the odor, though the issue remains a recurring topic of discussion among athletes participating in the event.