New York: Tennis star Novak Djokovic has sparked a surprising discussion at this year’s US Open by raising a bizarre but genuine complaint about the pervasive smell of marijuana drifting throughout the tournament grounds.

Following his straight-sets victory over Zachary Svajda in the second round, Djokovic addressed the swirling aroma that many players and spectators have noticed during the event. “You can definitely feel it, it’s not like you can’t,” Djokovic said. “Actually, you feel it more than anywhere else! Some people are more bothered, some less. I’m not a fan of that smell either, actually, stench. But it’s allowed here, and somehow you just have to accept it the way it is.” He explained the smell was present everywhere, from practice courts to match sessions—and admitted it was a persistent annoyance.

Djokovic’s remarks echo earlier sentiments expressed by fellow competitor Casper Ruud, who called the marijuana odour “the worst thing about New York” during last week’s mixed doubles matches. “It’s quite annoying to be playing, tired, and just metres away someone is smoking marijuana,” Ruud commented. Both players acknowledged there is little recourse since marijuana is fully legal in the state of New York.

Under current laws, adults aged 21 and over can carry and consume marijuana legally, which includes up to three ounces and concentrated forms. Although smoking and vaping are banned inside the US Open courts, the open-air nature of the facility allows marijuana smoke to waft through the venue from outside the grounds, making the distinct smell an unavoidable feature for those present.

US Open officials have stated they cannot act on the complaints due to the legal status of marijuana in the area. The issue has also been highlighted in past tournaments; three years ago, tennis player Nick Kyrgios voiced similar frustrations about the distinctive odour affecting players’ comfort and well-being during matches.