Greg Rusedski demands US Open cannabis ban
Former finalist Greg Rusedski calls for a smoking ban at the US Open after players including Aryna Sabalenka complain about the smell of cannabis during
Former world number four Greg Rusedski has urged US Open organizers to prohibit cannabis smoking at Flushing Meadows. His call follows public complaints from several players about the smell of marijuana during matches.
Top seed Aryna Sabalenka was forced to halt her third-round match against Kamila Rakhimova due to the odor inside Louis Armstrong Stadium. Sabalenka complained to the umpire that someone was "smoking weed" and later described the situation as very "tricky" to handle while competing.
Other players have voiced similar concerns. Adrian Mannarino claimed the tournament was becoming a "bit of a zoo" because of the marijuana smell and crowds disregarding tennis etiquette. Katie Boulter also said the aromas were off-putting during play.
Rusedski's stance on the issue
Although recreational cannabis use is legal in New York City, Rusedski argues it has no place at a major sporting event. The former US Open finalist shared his views on the Off Court podcast. "From my perspective, I don't like it at a sporting event," Rusedski said. "I don't think it puts a good image for the city."
He questioned the message it sends to younger fans. Rusedski believes the entire venue should be a no-smoking zone, covering both cigarettes and cannabis. He framed it as a matter of image and athletic integrity.
A call for organizational action
Rusedski directly challenged the United States Tennis Association to collaborate with city officials. "I don't understand how the USTA can't get together with the mayor of New York and say, 'Look, guys, we don't want this at our venue and we don't want this for the image of tennis'," he stated.
He admitted he is unsure of the policies at other major American sports events but maintains the activity is incompatible with sport. Rusedski expressed full agreement with the complaining players. "It has no right, I believe, to be at the US Open, to be at majors, to be at tennis tournaments," he concluded.
The financial stakes of the tournament's image
The former player believes USTA CEO Craig Tiley will take the players' concerns seriously. Rusedski suggested that if the tournament's "image"is damaged, it could have significant financial repercussions for both the event and New York City. He cited the tournament's massive economic impact."So I think next year, I don't think we'll be talking about these things," Rusedski said.
