Weed Wafting Over: The US Open's Unwelcome Distraction The recent incident in which Aryna Sabalenka stopped play during her US Open match due to a strong cannabis smell wafting from Flushing Meadows Corona Park has sparked a wider conversation about the tension between the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center's no smoking policy and New York's relaxed laws on recreational use.
British player Katie Boulter has also spoken out about the problem, describing it as an unwelcome distraction during matches.
The US Open's location near a cannabis friendly zone poses a logistical challenge for tournament organizers.