Full Breakdown
Sabalenka Pauses US Open Match Over Cannabis Odor
9/5/2026, 4:12:20 AM
Core Incident at Louis Armstrong Stadium
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka stopped her third-round match against Kamilla Rakhimova at Louis Armstrong Stadium after the smell of cannabis drifted onto the court. The interruption occurred early in the third game, with Sabalenka serving at 30-0. The umpire radioed an official and made a smoking gesture before play resumed. Sabalenka went on to win 6-3, 6-4, advancing to a fourth-round meeting with either Diana Shnaider or Taylor Townsend.
Ongoing Complaints About Smoking at the US Open
Sabalenka’s protest adds to a series of player grievances this year. Adrian Mannarino, Katie Boulter, and Casper Ruud have each described the smell of weed as a distraction, with many complaints historically focused on outer courts such as Court 17. Sabalenka’s mid-match halt on a main-court venue indicates that the issue is not confined to peripheral areas.
USTA Response
The United States Tennis Association (USTA) reiterated its policy that smoking is prohibited anywhere on the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center grounds.
Verbatim Quote
“There is nothing else to say about weed. I’m just asking people not to smoke it next to the tennis court,” — Aryna Sabalenka
Looking Ahead
The incident underscores the challenge of enforcing the USTA’s no-smoking rule amid dense crowds and strong winds that can carry odors onto the court. Officials indicated that heightened awareness and prompt reporting are essential to prevent future disruptions.
