US Open players report cannabis odors affecting concentration

As the US Open begins at Flushing Meadows, players are facing environmental distractions. British tennis player Katie Boulter reported that the smell of cannabis from the nearby Corona Park is affecting player concentration during matches. While smoking is prohibited within the tournament grounds, the scent drifts onto the courts, a recurring issue previously noted by players like Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev.

On the competitive front, several matchups are set for the opening rounds. Japanese player Shintaro Mochizuki is scheduled to face Mensik, while Aoi Ito is set to play Oksana Selekhmeteva. Selekhmeteva, who recently acquired Spanish citizenship, is ranked 104th in the WTA, while Ito is approaching the top 400. Additionally, Katie Boulter is scheduled to compete against American wildcard Carol Young Suh Lee in the first round.