# Environmental and atmospheric distractions at the US Open

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cannabis-odor-distractions-at-the-us-open
> Updated: 2026-09-08T20:26:00.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

During the US Open at Flushing Meadows, professional tennis players have reported environmental distractions caused by the smell of cannabis drifting from nearby areas.

At the start of the tournament, British player Katie Boulter noted that odors from the adjacent Corona Park were affecting concentration on the courts. This issue has been described as a recurring problem for various athletes during the event. By the third round, top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka was forced to temporarily pause her match against Kamilla Rakhimova due to an intense marijuana odor at Louis Armstrong Stadium. Following the match, Sabalenka stated that while she does not object to personal recreation, the scents make it difficult for players to maintain focus during high-level competition.

Player frustration has expanded to include the tournament’s overall atmosphere. Athletes have criticized excessive noise and the presence of influencers, whom organizers have invited to attract younger audiences. This environment, particularly at Arthur Ashe Stadium, often disrupts the silence required during play through persistent music and crowd chatter. While some players, such as Ben Shelton, appreciate the high-energy spectacle, others argue the party-like atmosphere compromises competitive integrity. To cope with these various distractions, some players, including Arthur Fery, have resorted to using earplugs during matches.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-08: US Open players criticize loud atmosphere and distractions

Tennis players at the US Open are criticizing the tournament's loud atmosphere, the presence of influencers, and the smell of marijuana, which they say disrupt professional competition.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-open-players-criticize-loud-atmosphere-and-distractions

### 2026-08-31: US Open players report cannabis odors affecting concentration

Tennis players at the US Open, including Katie Boulter, have reported that cannabis odors from nearby Corona Park are distracting them during matches as the tournament begins.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-open-players-report-cannabis-odors-affecting-concentration

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Cite as: Environmental and atmospheric distractions at the US Open. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cannabis-odor-distractions-at-the-us-open