Web Desk: Defending champion and World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka encountered an unexpected distraction during her US Open third round victory against Kamilla Rakhimova when an overpowering smell of marijuana blew across Louis Armstrong Stadium. Early in the first set while leading in her service game, Sabalenka paused play to address chair umpire Eva Asderaki Moore, pointing out that the strong odor was interfering with her concentration and asking officials to address the issue.
The chair umpire radioed security and tournament officials to investigate the stands, though tournament organisers later noted that prevailing winds frequently carry drifting smoke into the stadium from the public Flushing Meadows Corona Park. While recreational cannabis is legal for adults in New York, smoking of any kind remains strictly banned on the grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
Despite the temporary delay, Sabalenka maintained her dominance on court, powering through a tight second set to close out a straight sets win in one hour and 37 minutes. Addressing reporters after the match, Sabalenka kept a lighthearted tone, emphasising that while she does not mind fans relaxing off site, she hopes spectators keep smoke away from competition areas so players can perform at their highest level. American star Jessica Pegula also echoed concerns over court side odors, noting that drifting smoke has become a recurring challenge at the tournament.
