Players at the US Open have raised concerns about the pervasive smell of marijuana, particularly around Court 17, a sunken venue nicknamed 'the pit' and the 'hash court.' The odor is attributed to its proximity to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, where marijuana use is legal for those over 21, though prohibited within the tournament grounds.
British players have been vocal about the issue. Katie Boulter stated that while she isn't a fan of the smell, she has experienced it on practice courts and Court 17 during matches. "I wouldn’t like to smell it in the middle of my match," she said, noting it can be a distraction from focusing on the game. Francesca Jones described the smell during her qualifying match on Court 15 as "really bad" and "one of the worst." She added that while she's made light of the situation, she ultimately focuses on her performance.
Court 17, situated below ground level, is particularly susceptible to the drifting scent from the adjacent park. Other outdoor courts, including Court 15, have also been affected. Alexander Zverev previously described Court 17 as "Snoop Dogg's living room" in 2023, highlighting the smell's notoriety.
The USTA has acknowledged the issue, stating in a release that they "continue to be vigilant as we maintain this" and enforce rules against smoking on park property. They work with the NYPD and Parks Department to decrease smoking near the fenceline. "While we can’t control what takes place off the grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, we continue to be vigilant," the statement read.
Harriet Dart commented that the smell is "everywhere" in New York and "it is what it is. Same for everyone." The issue has previously been noted by other players, including Martina Hingis in 2014, though at a different court. New York legalized recreational marijuana in 2021, contributing to its prevalence in public spaces surrounding the tournament venue.