Something unusual unfolded at the US Open when Aryna Sabalenka, the world No.1 and two-time defending champion, briefly paused her second-round match against Kamilla Rakhimova at Louis Armstrong Stadium due to a strong cannabis smell drifting across the court.
Leading 3-0 in the first set, Sabalenka approached umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore, saying “someone is smoking weed” and asking for intervention as the odour was overwhelming. Officials gestured towards the stands before play resumed.
Despite the distraction, Sabalenka maintained her composure, completing a 6-3, 6-4 victory to extend her Flushing Meadows winning streak to 16 matches. She continues her pursuit of a third consecutive US Open crown.
Speaking afterwards, the Belarusian admitted the smell was hard to ignore: “It’s a bit tricky to handle that smell while you’re trying to compete at your best. I hope fans will be more mindful.”
Smoking is banned inside the grounds, but cannabis smoke often drifts in from Corona Park, where it is legal for adults. Other players, including Britain’s Katie Boulter, have raised similar complaints in recent years.
