World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka complained about the strong smell of marijuana during her US Open third-round match on September 4 against Kamilla Rakhimova, which she won 6-3, 6-4. The incident highlighted a pervasive cannabis odour issue at the venue; defending champions Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz both advanced toward the quarterfinals by September 6.
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Aryna Sabalenka complains about the smell of marijuana during her US Open match AP News
Aryna Sabalenka finally found something that could stop her at the U.S. Open: the smell of marijuana.
World No 1 went to win her third-round match 6-3 6-4 against Kamilla Rakhimov
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka joked she might “get high” after the strong smell of cannabis interrupted her US Open match. The Belarusian complained to the umpire while facing Kamilla Rakhimova, but recovered to win in straight sets. Sabalenka later admitted the smell was unusually strong, while suggesting wind may have carried it into Louis Armstrong Stadium.
Aryna Sabalenka complained about cannabis smoke during her US Open match. Kamilla Rakhimova was defeated by Sabalenka in straight sets. Casper Ruud previously mentioned the pervasive smell of marijuana in New York. Carlos Alcaraz adjusted his playing attire due to wardrobe concerns. The Williams sisters experienced a doubles match defeat after a significant lead.
Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz look to take another step toward defending their U.S. Open championships when they play Sunday for spots in the quarterfinals.