Title: Strong Marijuana Odor at US Open Raises Concerns Among Players and Security
Date: August 30, 2023
The ongoing US Open tennis tournament in New York has been marked by an unexpected issue – the pervasive smell of marijuana. Players and security personnel have expressed their concerns about the strong odor that has permeated the courts, particularly on Court 17.
During a press conference after her victory over Han Na-le, the Czech number one player commented on the situation, stating, “It’s quite strong. I think it’s coming from Court 17, which is located near a park. I believe it’s coming from there.”
Since last year, the possession and consumption of small amounts of marijuana have been legal in New York, and it can be smoked wherever smoking is generally permitted. However, the noticeable marijuana cloud has left an impression on Olympic champion Alexander Zverev, who began his program on the mentioned court. Zverev compared the smell to being in the presence of Snoop Dogg, a well-known advocate for marijuana use. “God, it’s everywhere! The whole court smells like grass,” said the 2020 tournament finalist.
The first-round match between Alexander Zverev and Aleksandar Vukic on Court 17 was accompanied by the distinct smell of marijuana, as observed by spectators. Greek player Maria Sakkari also complained about the strong scent after her unexpected elimination in the first round. “Sometimes you smell food, sometimes cigarettes, and sometimes grass. It’s something you can’t control because we are in an open space. There’s a park behind us, and people can do whatever they want there,” expressed the disappointed athlete.
Court 17, which can accommodate 2,500 spectators, is located in the southwest corner of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, adjacent to Corona Park. According to tournament security member Ricarda Rojas, the court has recently been enveloped in a significant marijuana haze, which has become a part of New York’s landscape since the drug’s legalization.
Rojas, however, does not believe that the smell of marijuana has affected the players’ performance during matches. “It’s everywhere now. You can’t escape it. You have to get used to it,” Rojas said, offering a clear recommendation to the players. “Try it. Maybe it will help you relax.”
Notably, other players, including Nick Kyrgios, have also complained about the marijuana smell at previous US Open tournaments. Kyrgios was met with a response from officials suggesting that the odor could be coming from food stands. Additionally, doubles champions Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova have also voiced their concerns about the pervasive scent.
As the US Open continues, it remains to be seen whether the issue of marijuana odor will be addressed or if players will have to adapt to the new olfactory experience on the courts.
Source: iDNES.cz
What actions can authorities take to minimize the impact of marijuana odor from a nearby park on the tennis tournament
Ijuana use.
Security at the US Open has also raised concerns about the marijuana odor, as they sniff out potential risks and disturbances during the tournament. They worry that the strong smell could be a distraction for the players and disrupt the overall atmosphere of the event.
Officials are currently investigating the source of the smell, with speculation pointing towards a nearby park where marijuana use may be prevalent. While smoking small amounts of marijuana is legal in New York, there are still restrictions on where it can be consumed. If it is determined that the marijuana odor is emanating from the park, authorities may take action to minimize the impact on the tennis tournament.
In the meantime, players and security personnel will have to contend with the pervasive aroma during matches. The US Open organizers are closely monitoring the situation and working to address the concerns raised by those directly affected.
I’m curious to see if any players will be affected or face consequences for using marijuana during the tournament.