Aryna Sabalenka Halts US Open Match Over Strong Marijuana Smell
During her third-round match at the US Open on September 4, 2026, world No. 1 and top seed Aryna Sabalenka temporarily halted play on Louis Armstrong Stadium due to an overwhelming smell of marijuana drifting across the court. Leading Kamilla Rakhimova 2-0 in the first set, Sabalenka approached chair umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore to complain about the potent odor before play resumed.
The Mid-Match Interruption at Louis Armstrong Stadium
The disruption occurred early in the opening set of the third-round fixture. Sabalenka was leading 2-0 when she walked over to chair umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore to voice her concerns. “Someone is smoking weed,” Sabalenka told the official. “Would you mind … because it’s so strong.”
In response, Asderaki-Moore communicated via radio with tournament officials and made a smoking gesture with her hands before competition continued. Sabalenka ultimately secured a straight-sets victory, taking the match 6-3, 6-4 to notch her 16th consecutive win at the US Open.
Environmental Factors and Flushing Meadows Regulations
While smoking of any kind is strictly prohibited within the grounds of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, recreational marijuana use is legal across New York City. Tournament conditions at Flushing Meadows frequently expose outer courts and stadiums to outside elements. Sabalenka noted after the match that windy conditions likely carried the scent into the arena. “It was a bit windy. I don’t know if it was, like, coming from the crowd or was from the outside because the wind blows it into the stadium,” Sabalenka stated. “I just hope they’re gonna be a bit more aware of that stuff.”
This incident is not the first time ambient cannabis odors have impacted play at the tournament.
Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.