In a surprising turn of events at the US Open, world number one Aryna Sabalenka paused her third-round match against Kamilla Rakhimova due to the strong smell of marijuana permeating the air. The incident occurred while Sabalenka was leading 2-0 and preparing to serve on the iconic Louis Armstrong Stadium.
As the match progressed, Sabalenka abruptly stopped play, consulting with her team before approaching the umpire's chair. She expressed her concern directly to umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore, stating, “Someone is smoking weed. Would you mind to … because it’s so strong.” This moment highlighted an unusual distraction during a high-stakes match.
Following Sabalenka's complaint, Asderaki-Moore communicated with an official via radio and gestured to indicate the issue. After a brief discussion, the match resumed, allowing Sabalenka and Rakhimova to continue their competition. The incident underscores the challenges players face beyond the physical demands of the game.
The smell of marijuana has reportedly been a recurring issue at Flushing Meadows during this year's tournament, although it has primarily been noted around the outside courts, particularly near Corona Park. The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has strict regulations against smoking on the tournament grounds, which raises questions about enforcement and the overall environment at the event.
As the tournament progresses, the presence of such distractions could impact players' performances and the overall atmosphere at the US Open. Sabalenka, a two-time defending champion, is known for her focus and determination on the court, making this incident particularly noteworthy.
The USTA has yet to comment on the situation, but the incident has sparked discussions about the regulations surrounding smoking at the venue and how they are enforced. As the tournament continues, players and officials alike will be watching closely to see how such issues are addressed moving forward.
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