Sabalenka Halts US Open Match Over Cannabis Smell in New York 2026

Aryna Sabalenka halted her US Open match due to a strong cannabis smell on court, highlighting the growing issue of marijuana smoke at the tournament. The two-time defending champion paused her third-round clash against Kamilla Rakhimova early in the first set, smiling as she approached chair umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore while leading 3-0. “Someone is smoking weed, do you mind … because it’s so strong,” she said, prompting a brief delay as officials tried to address the odor.

Sabalenka’s Reaction and the Match Outcome

Despite the distraction, Sabalenka maintained her focus and secured a comfortable 6-3, 6-4 victory over Rakhimova to reach the fourth round. The Belarusian star, who has been working to rebuild her form after a series of injuries, showed resilience and composure under unusual circumstances. Her ability to block out the pungent smell and stay competitive underscores her mental toughness on the big stage.

After the match, Sabalenka laughed while recounting the incident, saying, “I was, like, Guys, you can do whatever, you can smoke whatever, you can relax as much as you can, but please, do not do it around the tennis courts. It’s a bit tricky to handle that smell while you’re trying to compete at your best.” Her lighthearted yet firm message resonated with fans and players alike.

Cannabis at the US Open: A Growing Concern

Cannabis is legal in New York, and the smell of weed has become a common talking point at the US Open in recent years. The tournament grounds, located in Flushing Meadows, often have spectators enjoying marijuana, and the scent can drift onto the courts, affecting players’ concentration. Sabalenka noted that this was the strongest smell she had encountered in her years competing in New York, possibly due to wind conditions.

This incident is not isolated. Several players have complained about similar issues, prompting the USTA to consider stricter enforcement measures. However, balancing legal recreational use with the need for a distraction-free environment remains a challenge for tournament organizers.

Comparison: Cannabis Incidents at Tennis Majors

Key Takeaways for Tennis Fans

• Sabalenka advanced to the fourth round despite the cannabis smell interruption.
• Cannabis legalization in New York complicates tournament enforcement.
• Players are calling for better ventilation or designated smoking areas.
• The USTA may need to update policies to ensure fair play conditions.

FAQ

As the US Open continues, players and organizers must navigate the intersection of legal recreational use and professional sports. Sabalenka’s handling of the situation—both on and off the court—shows that humor and focus can overcome even the most pungent distractions.

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