Story perspectives

Sabalenka reaches US Open quarterfinals amid cannabis smell dispute

9/6/2026

Summary

Sabalenka Reaches QF

Aryna Sabalenka beat Taylor Townsend 6-4, 6-3 to reach the US Open quarterfinals.
The fourth-round match lasted one hour fifteen minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Sabalenka asked umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore to stop the strong cannabis smell on the court.
She risks losing her world No. 1 ranking after 97 weeks unless she wins a third US Open title.

Summary

Players demand odor-free

USTA spokesman Brendan McIntyre said the US Open venue remains smoke-free and security will enforce the rule.
Corona Park was identified as the likely source of the drifting cannabis odor that reached Louis Armstrong Stadium.
Jessica Pegula, world No. 3, echoed Aryna Sabalenka, player, calling for a distraction-free match environment because of the smell.
Katie Boulter, Harriet Dart and Francesca Jones also reported noticing the cannabis smell during US Open matches.

History

Historical Context

In 1998, the U.S. Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement forced major cigarette firms to pay $206 billion for health damages, reshaping public venues. The settlement prompted New York City to enact a citywide indoor smoking ban in 2003, enforced by the Department of Health and the USTA. Today, USTA officials like Brendan McIntyre and umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore confront cannabis odors at Arthur Ashe Stadium, echoing past battles for smoke-free competition. The precedent shows that regulatory pressure and legal precedents can compel sports bodies to protect athletes, suggesting stricter enforcement may follow.

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Sabalenka Reaches QF

Aryna Sabalenka beat Taylor Townsend 6-4, 6-3 to reach the US Open quarterfinals.
The fourth-round match lasted one hour fifteen minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Sabalenka asked umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore to stop the strong cannabis smell on the court.
She risks losing her world No. 1 ranking after 97 weeks unless she wins a third US Open title.

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