US Open’s High Noise and Distinctive Odors Present Unique Challenge for Players

The US Open stands out among tennis Grand Slam events for its intense sensory atmosphere, characterized by constant crowd noise, food and cannabis odors, and low-flying aircraft. While some players thrive on the high-energy crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, others use earplugs or alter their off-court routines to manage the distractions.

A sensory environment like no other

Unlike other major tennis tournaments, the US Open in New York City features a distinctive urban backdrop. Food smells from concession stands have long been part of the grounds. Former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash recalled that during his first junior appearance in 1982, he saw smoke rising from a nearby hot dog stand during play. Cash went on to win the boys’ title that year and reached the men’s semifinals in 1984.

Former women’s champion Angelique Kerber, who won the tournament in 2016, described the noise as the most difficult aspect to adapt to. Recalling her first night match at Arthur Ashe Stadium against Serena Williams, Kerber noted that crowd noise was continuous from the tunnel entrance onward, while changeovers featured a party-like atmosphere with music and crowd cameras.

Flight paths, earplugs, and court noise

Aviation noise has affected the tournament since its move to Flushing Meadows in 1978. Planes from neighboring LaGuardia Airport historically drowned out the sound of tennis balls hitting racket strings, a sound players rely on to judge shot power, spin, and trajectory. In the early 1990s, former New York Mayor David Dinkins intervened to persuade airport authorities to alter flight paths during the tournament to reduce disruptions.

Despite administrative measures, overall volume levels remain challenging for some competitors. During his first-round loss to Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti, British player Arthur Fery repeatedly wore earplugs during changeovers. Fery explained that he used them to block out ambient noise and regain focus when feeling frustrated or inadequately rested.

Marijuana odors and player reactions

In recent years, traditional food aromas have been joined by the smell of marijuana following its legalization in New York in 2021. Several players competing on outer courts adjacent to Corona Park have noted the scent drifting across the match venues.

Player reactions to the conditions vary. American player Ben Shelton praised the atmosphere, stating, “It’s the only time in our sport that you get to hear 20,000 people screaming your name.” Conversely, Australian player Alex de Minaur noted that managing the surroundings requires extra effort, explaining that he stays in quieter areas of the city during the tournament to find balance.

Background

The US Open is the final Grand Slam event of the annual professional tennis calendar, taking place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens. Its centerpiece venue, Arthur Ashe Stadium, is the largest tennis venue in the world by seating capacity, accommodating over 23,000 spectators. The tournament’s setting near major transport corridors and public parks gives it an environment markedly different from the three other major events held in Melbourne, Paris, and London.