‘Someone is smoking weed’

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-09-04 • Permanent link

Rumors are swirling around the tennis world after a bizarre incident at the US Open. On Monday, world number one Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the fourth round after defeating Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets. However, the match was interrupted when Sabalenka briefly stopped to complain about the strong smell of cannabis emanating from the stands. Witnesses reported that the odor was particularly pungent in the vicinity of the player's box, causing a stir among the crowd and officials.

The sudden disruption has raised concerns about the potential impact on the tournament's reputation. Tennis authorities have long sought to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere, and any association with cannabis use could be detrimental to the sport's image. Fans and sponsors alike will be watching closely to see how the incident is handled, and whether it leads to any changes in the tournament's policies or rules.

The use of cannabis in sports is a relatively new phenomenon, although it has been a part of the culture in some circles for years. The tennis world has traditionally been more conservative, with players and officials often viewing cannabis use as a distraction or a risk to performance. However, with the growing trend of cannabis use among young people, some experts argue that the sport needs to adapt and find a way to coexist with this new reality.

As the US Open continues, investors and sponsors will be keeping a close eye on how the tournament handles the cannabis incident. The result: a potential shift in the sport's stance on cannabis use, and a possible increase in attendance and engagement among younger fans. With the US Open set to attract a global audience, the incident has highlighted the need for sports organizations to navigate the complexities of cannabis use in the modern era.