**Title:** Casper Ruud Voices Concerns Over Marijuana Smell at U.S. Open
**Meta Description:** Norwegian tennis star Casper Ruud expresses his discomfort with marijuana smoke at the U.S. Open, highlighting its impact on players.
**URL Slug:** casper-ruud-marijuana-smell-us-open
**Headline:** Casper Ruud Raises Concerns About Marijuana Odor at the U.S. Open
Norwegian tennis player Casper Ruud is aiming to recapture the magic he experienced during the 2022 U.S. Open as he competes in this year’s final Grand Slam tournament. After losing last year’s final to Carlos Alcaraz in four sets, Ruud is eager to start strong, beginning with a first-round match against Sebastian Ofner.
Upon returning to New York for the tournament, Ruud shared his thoughts on the atmosphere, particularly regarding the prevalence of marijuana smoke. “It’s complicated to be on the court with people smoking joints. Having to inhale that smell of marijuana when we’re tired is not fun at all,” he remarked to Norwegian media. He emphasized that the intensity of the odor can be overwhelming at times, calling it the “worst thing about New York.”
Ruud noted that the smell is pervasive, even on the courts, stating, “We have to accept it, but it’s not my favorite smell. It’s quite annoying to be playing, tired, and just meters away, someone is smoking marijuana.” He expressed skepticism about any potential changes to the current laws, which legalized marijuana in New York in 2021, despite the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center being designated as a smoke-free facility.
The issue of marijuana smoke has been a topic of discussion among players, with Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios also voicing complaints about the odor during the 2022 tournament. While the U.S. Open aims to maintain a smoke-free environment, the reality remains that the smell can still infiltrate the venue.
As Ruud prepares for his upcoming matches, he hopes to focus on his performance while navigating the unique challenges presented by the tournament’s setting.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: What did Casper Ruud say about the marijuana smell at the U.S. Open?**
A: Casper Ruud expressed discomfort with the strong smell of marijuana at the U.S. Open, stating it can be distracting and annoying for players during matches.
