Aryna Sabalenka, the world No.1, complained to umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore about a strong cannabis smell during her third-round US Open match against Kamilla Rakhimova on Louis Armstrong Stadium. ^[1] During Naomi Osaka's first-round match at the 2026 US Open, a spectator used a bright ring light to take pictures, and a group of fans in a suite recorded themselves animatedly, causing disruption. ^[2][3] Sabalenka said she asked fans not to smoke near the courts, saying it was tricky to handle the smell while competing. ^[4] USTA spokesman Brendan McIntyre said the facility is maintained as a smoke-free environment. ^[5] Spectators were allegedly using portable lights, such as ring lights, to capture photos during the live matchplay. ^[6] Sabalenka stated she had never smelled the odor so strong as she did while serving early in the match against Kamilla Rakhimova. ^[7] Sabalenka told the umpire that she hopes officials will be more aware of marijuana use around the tennis courts. ^[8] During the US Open, influencers with ring lights in a suite disrupted the match between Naomi Osaka and Anastasia Zakharova to the extent that the tournament posted a sign asking attendees to refrain from flash photography or other lighting. ^[9] Some influencers are paid six figures to create content covering the US Open, transforming the tournament into a high-payout content hub. ^[10] The article states that tennis enthusiasts continue to attend the US Open in droves, undeterred by the influencer incidents. ^[11] US Open spokesperson Brendan McIntyre said the tournament is excited to see new fans attending but reminded them not to interfere with the action and competition on the court. ^[12]